For the past five years, Middle School students turned their phones into their advisers at the beginning of the day. However, because of COVID-19, students are now allowed to carry their phones around.
“The only time I really care when they are out is in my class,” science teacher and eighth-grade Form Dean Clayton Miles said, “because the rules are softer this year.” Mr. Miles has been teaching at KO for about 30 years, and he also works at a camp in Maine called Camp Winona. He does not have a strong opinion on students having their phones as long as they are not out during class.
“It’s nice to have your phone to contact your parents just in case and it gives a sense of responsibility,” eighth-grader Lia Arnold said. “But for some students, the temptation of using phones during class can be difficult.” Lia likes the new phone rules and feels they give students a sense of responsibility.
Seventh-grader Wade Crowther agrees with Lia. “Everyone pretty much follows the rules,” he said. “Sometimes It can be difficult to resist the temptation of using your phone when it’s in your pocket or bag but most of my classmates do well with it.”
Although the temptation can be tough, students have adjusted to the new phone rules well. With the new phone rule going well so far, students hope it will continue next year after the pandemic.
