In the heart of Howard County, a gathering of educators and students unfolded under the bright lights of the Board of Education meeting, where voices echoed with concerns and suggestions about the future of digital education. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency as students took the floor to share their experiences and advocate for changes that could significantly impact their learning environment.

One student, reflecting on their experience in digital classrooms, highlighted a pressing issue: the limitations of using Chromebooks for submitting assignments. “The scanner on the Chromebooks results in really blurry images that teachers can't read,” they explained, emphasizing how this technical hurdle undermines academic integrity during exams. The student urged the board to consider solutions that would allow for clearer submissions, ensuring that assessments remain fair and effective.

The conversation quickly shifted to the challenges faced by students in performance classes such as dance and photography. With many relying on their cell phones for reference materials and video recordings, the inability to use these devices has hindered their ability to perform and be graded effectively. “Without all of these devices, they can't really perform the same as they used to,” the student lamented, calling for exceptions to the current restrictions on personal devices.

Athletes, too, found their voices in this discussion. The unpredictability of weather often leaves coaches scrambling to communicate practice cancellations, typically done through group texts. “Without having cell phones, students can't access this information any longer,” one student pointed out, raising concerns about the safety and well-being of those left stranded at school without a way to get home. The urgency of these issues resonated throughout the room, as students urged the board to reconsider the blanket ban on personal devices, advocating for amendments that would allow for necessary communication and support.

Rosemary Kamalu, a student from Oakland Mills High School, echoed these sentiments, urging the board to rethink the recent adjustments to policy 8,080, which restricts personal device use during non-instructional time. “This small allowance could significantly improve student well-being and concentration throughout the day,” she argued, highlighting the importance of using phones and headphones for both leisure and essential communication with parents and coaches.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the voices of students were not just heard but valued. Their insights painted a vivid picture of the challenges they face daily, urging the board to find a balance between maintaining focus in classrooms and acknowledging the realities of student life. The discussions held that evening could pave the way for a more supportive educational environment, one that recognizes the importance of technology in learning and communication. As the board deliberates, the future of Howard County Public Schools hangs in the balance, with students advocating for a system that truly meets their needs.