BLOOMINGTON (25News Now) – Bloomington High School is implementing a strict no-phone policy this year, and so far, leaders are pleased with the results.
The new districtwide policy aims to reduce classroom distractions and increase student engagement.
Students at Bloomington High School are expected to keep their devices hidden throughout the entire school day.
“The way it was before where teachers had discretion on cell phones. Some teachers were struggling with students who were using their cell phones in the classroom. Some really didn’t. So it just leveled the playing field for all of us,” said Tim Moore, principal of Bloomington High School.
Students adapt to major change
Seniors say the new policy represents the biggest change they have experienced during their time at the school. This is the first school year it has been implemented.
“It was hard because it’s like my senior year. I can’t really take videos or photos and enjoy like other seniors get to enjoy. But I feel like I’m actually enjoying my time more, and I’m present and taking in the senior year,” said Katy Imhoff, a BHS senior.
“Not having a distraction has allowed me to talk with others in my school. So a lot of the time, people would not talk. So now I’m allowed to do that,” said Claudia Ifft, another senior.
Teachers report improved classroom engagement
Teachers say they are noticing increased eye contact and attention from students since the policy took effect.
“A lot more students are staying on top of their work better. I’m seeing fewer late assignments, I’m seeing less, ”oh, when was that due again?” So a lot of students are more attentive in their work,” said social studies teacher Patrick Rosengren.
“More eye contact. I think that we used to have problems, especially in my area. Students would come in with headphones on, and they wouldn’t hear you, they wouldn’t address you, they wouldn’t talk to you. And now we’re having eye-to-eye contact, having conversations, and it’s just very nice,” said library media specialist Marla Brady.
Policy extends beyond phones
The new rule also bans headphones from classrooms.
“We treat headphones the same way we do a cell phone. So if you have headphones on, we’re going to confiscate those. And that counts as one of your strikes against you, because again, there’s a pretty good chance if you’ve got headphones on, you probably have music playing,” said Principal Moore.
District 87 says the policy will remain in place, and officials hope it continues to create more focused, connected classrooms.
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