The Aftermath of the Phone Ban
The Aftermath of the Phone Ban
Davin Stanio
After the phone ban was put in place at school, many things started to change. At first, most students were upset because they were used to having their phones with them all day. They used their phones to text friends, watch videos, listen to music, and check social media. Without their phones, school felt very different. “We’re used to having constant access to our phones. And adjusting to life without them during the school day wasn’t easy,” said Massimo Randazzo, a senior at Ramsey High School.”
One of the biggest changes was during lunch. Before the ban, many students would sit together but spend most of their time looking at their screens. After the ban, students started talking more and doing other activities. Some played games, while others walked around, played sports, or simply talked with their friends. “Instead of everyone rushing between classes, staring at screens, students actually started talking to one another. The space felt more social and more present,” said Massimo Randazzo. The cafeteria became louder because more students were actually having conversations.
The phone ban also affected classrooms. Teachers noticed that students were paying more attention during lessons. There were fewer distractions from notifications, games, and social media. Some students found it easier to finish their work because they were not checking their phones every few minutes. William Goold, a teacher in High Tech High School, said, “Students were spending too much time on their phones instead of focusing on school”
However, not everyone liked the ban. Some students felt that they should be allowed to use their phones during free time. Others worried about not being able to contact their parents during the school day. Governor Phil Murphy said, “By removing cell phones from New Jersey schools, we are ensuring our classrooms are a place for learning and engagement, not distracting screens that detract from academic performance.”
After a few weeks, the phone ban seemed less difficult for most students. They learned that they could get through the school day without constantly checking their phones. Some students even said they enjoyed talking to their friends more. Overall, the aftermath of the phone ban had both good and bad effects. It was difficult for students at first, but it helped reduce distractions and encouraged more face-to-face conversations. The ban showed that phones can be useful, but spending less time on them can also help students focus and connect with others.