A new policy limits phone use for students across Haverhill’s school district.
High School Principal Michael Downs gave the reasons why at last week’s School Committee meeting.
“The main purpose of the policy is to help students focus on their learning while they’re in school during the day, and, of course, help teachers deliver instruction to students who are now paying attention,” he explained.
The rule passed without controversy. Though teachers never allowed phones in class, Downs told WHAV, he hopes the new policy, put in writing, will make enforcement a little easier. Administrators will inform everyone of the new expectations at the beginning of the year, he added.
According to Haverhill’s policy, students must put their phones in “designated classroom containers or on silent in a backpack.” They are only allowed between classes and during lunch.
Committee member Mikaela D. Lalumiere said, “I know, from working in high school, we hear that, ‘I have outside obligations to work, to family. That’s why I need to be able to have communication.’ And I think this provides them an opportunity during transition, during lunches. I think it’s a very fair policy.”
Phone-related penalties include confiscation, being barred from bringing the device to school and one-day suspension. The most severe punishment comes only if students take photos or videos “without prior permission.” “Harassing and bullying behavior” is also deemed a violation.
Lalumiere emphasized all adults must be brought up to speed. Addressing parents in particular, she said, “You’ve got to stick with us on this because the kids are going to push back, but we really need your help to make sure it’s going to work, and it’s going to be a much better atmosphere for everyone at the high school if it does.”
WHAV previously reported on conflicts at Haverhill High involving smartphones.