Regarding Bob Harper’s letter (“Classrooms not the place for phones,” In Our View, Feb. 20), I disagree because students need their phone anywhere they go, including the classroom.
While phones can be distracting sometimes, they are also important for contacting family outside of school. If there is a family emergency, cellphones may be needed to maintain a calm classroom environment while the student is informed. Also, kids need phones in the classroom to take photos of their notes if the school has a half-day and classes move too quickly.
As a student with a physical disability who has a difficult time keeping up with the classroom speed, the ability to take photos can greatly help my education. It also allows me to connect with staff privately if I need assistance with anything.
Finally, with the increase of school violence and shootings, having cellphones in the classroom can be a great help for police to fully understand the situation inside the school. As a student, having access to a cellphone enhances my learning abilities and ensures my safety and connection to family in stressful situations. So I believe that cellphones should not be banned in school.
