Parents split on Southeastern’s cell phone policy; students ‘adjust’

A cell phone policy change at Southeastern Jr./Sr. High School has been positive for the district, the superintendent said, but reactions from parents on the Springfield News-Sun Facebook page remain split.

Southeastern Local Schools changed the policy at the beginning of the school year to require that students keep their cell phones in their locker during schools hours.

In past years, students could carry their phones with them, however they had to be turned off.

“Unfortunately, in this time I think children need their phones,” Jessica Fuller said. “However, I say it should be on silent in their pockets or book bags. Definitely not out though.”

RELATED: Southeastern students adjust to cell phone ban, superintendent says 

Superintendent David Shea said students have adjusted to the policy.

“The first nine weeks there were 29 infractions, then the second nine weeks only seven infractions,” he said. “Once they got a little more used to the policy, they seemed to adjust.”

“They should be allowed to carry their phones with them - if something bad happens they couldn’t call their mom or dad,” Libby Miller said. “This is a bad idea.”

Students caught using their phones are given a verbal warning first, but could face harsher punishments if phone use continues.

RELATED: Southeastern bans student cell phones during school day

Shea said parents in need of contacting their child during the school day are encouraged to call or email the school’s front office.

“This is Awesome,” J.D. Overman said. “Just shows you don’t need your phone 24/7 and I’m sure the kids are more focused.”

Tyler Banion added, “Great school district we have. Well done and grades actually go up with phones not being involved.”

“There have been no complaints from parents concerning limitations to their kids,” Shea said. “The office phone and email is available all day for parent-student communication.”

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