Revere High School outlines new cell phone policy for 2025-26 school year

During a recent Committee of the Whole Meeting for Revere Public Schools, discussions centered on the pressing issue of cell phone use in schools, particularly at Revere High School. The meeting highlighted the findings and recommendations from a dedicated cell phone working group, led by assistant principal Afton Bowen and other educators, who have been gathering input from teachers, students, and caregivers over the past several months.

The working group presented a comprehensive 10-page memo detailing their research, which included surveys and focus groups, as well as an analysis of cell phone policies from approximately 20 comparable school districts. The findings revealed a strong consensus among both adults and students that cell phone use poses significant challenges to learning, with many identifying it as a mental health crisis exacerbated by addiction.

To address these concerns, the group proposed the implementation of locker boxes in classrooms. This system aims to standardize cell phone management across the school, providing a consistent approach that would alleviate the burden on individual teachers and enhance classroom management. The proposal suggests that all students would be required to place their phones in designated locker boxes at the beginning of each class, with a streamlined process for retrieving them at the end of the period. This method is expected to take approximately five minutes at the start and end of each class, which the group believes is a manageable trade-off compared to the disruptions caused by phone use during lessons.

The recommendation has garnered positive feedback from educators and parents alike, with many expressing support for a uniform policy that would apply to all classrooms. However, concerns were raised about ensuring consistent enforcement of the policy, particularly among substitute teachers and newer educators who may struggle with classroom management. The importance of educator buy-in was emphasized, as successful implementation relies on teachers' commitment to uphold the policy.

Additionally, the meeting touched on potential legislative changes at the state level that could further restrict cell phone use in schools. The Senate President has indicated interest in banning cell phones from secondary schools, which could impact the district's approach moving forward.

As the school year approaches its end, the working group aims to finalize their recommendations and communicate the new policy to staff, students, and families before the summer break. This proactive approach seeks to ensure that everyone is informed and prepared for the upcoming school year, fostering a supportive environment for both teaching and learning. The discussions at this meeting reflect a broader commitment to addressing the challenges posed by technology in educational settings, highlighting the need for thoughtful policies that prioritize student well-being and academic success.