From Pockets to Holders

Talk surrounding the distracting nature of cell phones and other electronic devices within the Polson School District, and in many others across the nation, has sparked change in what administrators at Polson High School believe is best for their students’ learning environment.

Newly implemented this year, the PHS Cell Phone Policy requires students to keep their personal electronic devices turned off and placed either in a designated holder or in their backpack during instructional time. However, students are still allowed to use their phones during passing periods and at lunch.

Previously, phone use varied teacher by teacher, with each instructor deciding when it was appropriate for students to use their phones during class. The ultimate goal of the new policy, as stated in the PHS 2025–2026 Cell Phone Policy Revision Process document, is “to promote clarity, consistency, and a stronger learning environment for everyone.”

In a staff survey conducted at PHS, only 12% of teachers said the old policy was sufficient, with many reporting that phone disruptions had become a daily frustration. Principal Betsy Wade said the enforcement of previous cell phone regulations was inconsistent across classrooms.

The updated policy aims to promote uniform expectations for both teachers and students. So far, Wade said feedback from staff has been largely positive. While some students were initially reluctant to accept the change, several others have shared that they’re able to focus better in class without their phones. Wade believes the new policy will continue to meet its goals as long as enforcement remains consistent.

Polson Middle School also implemented a new cell phone policy, but theirs requires students to keep their phones away throughout the entire day. PMS Principal Bonnie Perry says that since implementing this policy, students have been engaging more with one another during lunch and recess. Perry said. “Last year, I would walk into the cafeteria and literally every kid was on their phone. They’d be sitting in groups of five or more, but there was still no real, physical interaction between students. Now, when I walk into the lunchroom, they’re laughing, talking, and sharing stories. That’s been the best thing for me to see.”

Just like Wade, Perry also emphasized that consistency is key in maintaining their cell phone policy. The school uses a three-strike system, after which a parent must come to pick up the phone. So far, parents have been very accommodating. Perry shared, “I haven’t had any negative feedback from parents, quite the opposite. I’ve had to call a few and say, ‘Hey, we’re getting close to having to keep it until you come get it.’ They’ve been very understanding and agree there’s no excuse; students know they’re supposed to lock their phones away.”

Before the away for the day policy, PMS had an identical policy to the current one at PHS. Sophomore Amirah Akkasha, said, for her, this transition wasn’t a big deal. Besides an easy switchover, Akkasha said having regulations on her phone makes her phone less of a distraction anyways. Therefore, the policy hasn’t really impacted her focus. She thinks that the policy does what it’s intended, depending on the student. “Whether a student lets themselves get distracted isn’t dependent on only a phone,” she said. While she’s observed people doing a brief check of their phone, no one is going on their phone for long periods of time like before, she said.

Akkasha believes students will start to focus more if the PHS cell phone policy stays in check during the upcoming school years.

Senior David DiGiallonardo notes that, as the policy stands, it will hopefully reduce students being on their phones during class. However, he points out that when a student finishes an assignment, instead of quietly going on their phone, they often start talking to others, which can be disruptive.

While DiGiallonardo agrees the policy itself is fine, he says enforcement isn’t always strict. “There are definitely teachers who, even before the new cell phone policy, always enforced it and would take your phone away if they saw it,” he said. “But then there are other teachers who don’t really care as much if you’re on your phone in class. They might just tell you to put it away, or if you’re done with your work, they’ll let you use it.” Like Akkasha, he hopes that, in a few years, the policy will become more consistent and stricter as students adjust to it.

Wade wants students to gain skills from this policy that will serve them beyond high school. “Cell phones are a part of our world now,” she said. “At this age, it’s important to learn how to use them appropriately, while also developing real-world communication skills, building confidence, and reducing anxiety.”