A new communication device law that prevents students from being able to use their cell phones during the instructional day, House Bill 1481, went into full effect Sep 1, after being passed over the summer.

In the past, students had been able to use their phones in some classes, at lunch, and during passing periods.

   “There are many more downsides to it than some may think, not only is it a safety issue but it also causes parents to worry,” freshman Samantha Morales said. “It wasn’t a good idea to pass this law, especially in a state like ours.” 

Some students question how they would be able to reach their parents in an emergency.   “We have enough security on campus,” assistant principal Christopher Hoffpauir said. “Every single office has a phone someone will let you borrow… you don’t need to have a phone on you to contact anybody.”

While the discussion of safety is a popular topic regarding this specific law, the concern of focus and music also occurs. 

“Music helps kids focus a lot especially when they can put on their own {music} not the teachers’ {music},” freshman Gianna Cook said. “Music has done so much for me personally and I at least think we should have that or else I just feel surrounded by negativity…sometimes you just need a song to pick you up.”

Students who, in the past, felt that music was an everyday essential are now having to learn to adapt to a new way to go about their day unless they require special permissions.

“We do have some students, medically, whose doctors have said they have to have access to that type of resource {music}…we work with our team so they can have access to that when necessary,” principal Shannon Strole said. “Every student and situation is unique so we always try to make sure we hear the whole story before we make a decision.”

The library has recently been updated as a spot for kids to eat lunch during their designated lunch period. Students often go to talk with friends or just play games.

“At lunch I just people-watch,” senior Kelsey Coleman said. “I don’t ever really feel like talking so usually I like to listen to music but since {the phone ban} I can’t, so I just come here {the library} to chill.”

Even with the new law in place, students and staff are working towards adapting while still making this a good school year.

 “I don’t want to rush it, I want  to enjoy each season of the school year because we have a lot of fun things planned,” Strole said.