At the beginning of the year, Oak Knoll adopted a new school-wide cell phone policy. This policy prohibits the use of our phones throughout the day, requiring students to keep them powered off in our bags. When this policy was first announced, the student body expressed visible concern. Nowadays, phones are such a vital part of our lives, and the idea of having these lifelines stripped away was met with much resistance. Mrs. Levchuk, an English teacher at our school, remarked, “I wish people weren’t as addicted to their phones, so that we would not need this policy.” Her comment brings to light a greater issue in our school community, which is the students’ increasing dependence on technology. This relates to the recent development of AI, and the restrictions and responsibilities that come with its utilization. Although AI is an incredible tool, students must know how to use it properly and continue to develop their own academic skills. This means that, in addition to the phone policy, Oak Knoll has implemented guidelines on the use of AI that follow a “red, yellow, and green light” system. For example, the red light means that you can not use AI on your assignment, the green light means that you are allowed to, etc.
More recently, a few weeks after implementation of the new phone policy, it seems that students have adjusted to this change and are starting to appreciate its effects. Many students have remarked that the policy fosters more communication with their peers. For instance, tenth grader Isabella Ceballos commented, “I like the policy because it has allowed me to connect with my classmates on a deeper level. I also think that it’s kept me more in the moment in school without having to worry about outside things.” Isabella expressed that the policy allows her to be more present during the school day. Instead of checking for notifications or the latest post, she develops meaningful relationships with her peers. The positive changes in student life stemming from this policy are noticeable. Mrs Levchuk states, “I feel like people are less distracted by their phones, and there are more conversations among students during breaks and during their free time, which I think is really wonderful.” Mrs. Levchuk’s statement highlights the positive benefits on Oak Knoll’s sense of community from this policy. Ultimately, both students and faculty recognize that the new phone policy has had a positive impact on the school by fostering a greater sense of connection between students and encouraging them to be engaged throughout the school day.