Remember the saying “Things aren’t always what they seem.” I had a chance to talk to John Cain, the North Tama Superintendent, about the no phone policy. I am in favor of the no phone policy. As we talked, I learned each classroom has a phone pouch. Whe the student enters the classroom their phone goes in the pouch, unless for example medical reasons, or simply don’t have one. Sounded like a good plan!

Twenty students 20 phones in the pouch. Simple policy! Not all teachers enforce the policy. The administration has a plan to visit 10 classrooms per week starting first part of October to evaluate the policy. I talked with some teachers and paras and as f the end of September anywhere from 20% to 80% compliance depending on the teacher.

The percentage is falling anywhere each week according to some. Sixty classes, 10 per week, six weeks to visit all classes one time. By then what will be the compliance to the phone policy? I feel they are sending a message to the students that they have a policy, but don’t enforce it.

Students are quick learners, policies and rules don’t need to be followed.

Denny Berger

Traer