Rosseburg School District instituted a new, stricter electronic device policy this year that states that students may not use personal electronics, including cellular devices and any sort of headphones, during class time or while they are strolling through the halls during a passing period. Recent speculation has reasoned that the phone policy was implemented due to students’ disrespectful behavior in the past few years. 

A discussion with home economics teacher Sheri Carson introduced an impactful perspective concerning the new school rule. During the interview, she stated, “I think in today’s age of technology we need to teach more about how to use it properly.” Many people agree with this opinion because of the current cyberbullying taking place throughout multiple media platforms.  

Multiple teachers have stated the students have complied with the faculty regarding the phone requirements. Off the record, another teacher stated that they were glad they did not have to compete for students’ attention during class.

Jessie Palacios, an RHS English teacher, encourages students to continue respecting teachers with the new technology limits. After the new phone policy took effect, Mrs. Palacios commented, “I don’t know whether my students are fantastic people or what, but I’ve never had a senior class so engaged.” 

Many teachers have noticed a recognizable level of positive growth in students’ education this year. During the previous school year, students seemed to prioritize their phone and social media over learning. However, in the present school year, students have been seen asking more questions, participating, and focusing on worksheets during school time.

Last year, students were rarely engaging with each other. With COVID-19, students had to adapt to online learning and a lack of in-person lessons. Phones are being put away and out of sight, which solves the temptation for students to read messages. Multiple members of the student body have stated there has been substantial growth concerning how well students are able to concentrate. 

However,  many students do not agree with the phone policy, even though many students have reported that the policy has brought back a new type of concentration that some haven’t had for years. 

The new rules that the School Board has set is trapping teachers in a difficult position. Whether or not the staff members agree with the policy, they are required to stand by it. 

One teacher, who chose to remain anonymous, stated, “Due to the latest cell phone policy, I have had multiple parents email me about how it has affected their children. One asked if her child could keep it out during class on their desk, because having it away causes them severe anxiety related problems. I want to help these students; however, I also want to prioritize their learning and keep my job.” 

Staff members at RHS, specifically in the arts and English classes, are finding trouble with sparking student creativity. In past years, when students had freedom to listen to music, or even find inspiration from their camera roll, they exceeded in regards to their creativity. With the new phone policy, students are not able to be comfortable and let their emotions out through music and other art forms via a cellular device. 

Another English teacher at Roseburg High School said, “I understand why the school board would dislike music and headphones during class. However, personally, I struggle with writing and expressing creativity in silence. This forces me to tell my students they are required to do something that even I have troubles with.” 

However, regardless of the opinions of teachers, staff members, students, and the Roseburg High School community, this phone policy will continue to be in effect until the school board states otherwise.

This story originally appeared in the print edition of the Orange R in December 2023.