PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — As the new school year quickly approaches, Olney High School leaders introduced a new policy to keep students focused and off their cell phones.
Previously, they used Yondr pouches to lock and store the devices.
“I think the pouch policy is fine as long as the children can get to the phone,” said Felecia Williamson.
However, this week, staff posted a notice on the school’s social media pages stating students will have weather-resistant lockers outside where phones are safely secured throughout the school day.
Locks will cost $1 during the first week of school and then $5 thereafter.
Parents who live in Olney are not in favor of this plan.
“There’s so much going on out here, in schools actually, and the children need to be able to get to their phones. They need to be able to contact their parents,” said Williamson.
“I think children should have their phones because anything can arise,” said Laverne Powell.
The post also stated that staff will monitor and lock the storage area, but they will not be responsible for any lost or stolen phones.
“If anybody breaks into the lockers and take the phones outside, y’all not responsible? So, then the parent is screwed because we pay for the phones,” said Powell.
“How are they not going to be responsible for the phones that they asked the children to leave out there? No, that’s not a good policy,” said Williamson.
School leaders mentioned the benefits, stating this will help reduce the financial burden of Yondr pouches and address concerns about them.
They also cited research that shows phone restrictions increased academic and behavioral success among students.
Parents agree, but believe phones should not be locked away.
“Kids tend to pull their phone out in class when they should be paying attention, but I guess the parents need to talk with their children and let them know that is for emergency purposes only. Do not pull it out in school,” said Powell.
A student also created a petition to protect the phones by keeping the former policy or having the school take full responsibility. It has more than 600 signatures. Students also plan to hold a peaceful protest.
We reached out to the school for more information on their policy. We’re waiting to hear back.
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