As the 2024-2025 school year began at Westhampton Beach, it brought an update to an old rule. Westhampton Beach District adapted its old Cell Phone policy for students to stay more attentive and active in the classroom. . Cell phone usage in the classroom has been a very controversial ongoing debate.
WHB students have mixed feelings about the new policy. Senior Carlos Ordonez said, “I should be able to use my phone in class just in case something very important happens with my family.” The policy could limit your immediate knowledge of emergencies with family or friends.
However, some students can see the benefits. Sophomore Marcos Moran said, “The new cell phone policy is helping my grades because I’m not distracted on my phone during class.”
On the other side, teachers had reviews about the policy in their regards to teaching. Spanish teacher Mr Medina said, “100% it is so much easier. I think cell phones cause a lot of distraction. Without the cell phones students are more engaged in learning and into the lessons.”
Social Studies teacher Mr Rupertus said, “Teaching has been significantly easier with the cell phone policy because students are less distracted during class checking their phones and playing games.” The policy has greatly benefited the classroom atmosphere.
As cell phone usage being banned in Westhampton Beach doesn’t sit well with some students, it does benefit in the classroom. Students interact more with one another and are more engaged in classroom activities, it helps to decrease distractions and studies show that enhances student academic scores in the classroom.
