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Thursday, 28 August 2008 |
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By Tagen Towsley BLACKFOOT — At the end of the first day of school students filed out the front door and turned on their cell phones. Along with being the first day of school the school board also enforced a new policy regarding electronic devices for the first time.
Blackfoot School District passed a new policy on personal entertainment or paging devices. This includes cell phones and other electronic devices such as portable media players. Blaine McInelly, principal of Blackfoot High School, was pleased with how the fist day went.
“The kids were OK with the new policy. They even got excited because they are looking forward to not having cell phones in the classroom. A lot of them see it as a learning distraction,” McInelly said.
Marianna Molinani doesn’t mind the new policy on electronic devices.
“People will learn more and won’t be worried if their boyfriends will call,” Molinani said.
Even though the students were not able to use their phones during school, they were excited to be back. Student Savannah Price was surprised that her first day as a junior wasn’t very stressful.
“Today went pretty well for me. I thought because I am a junior this year school would be more stressful, but I think it will just be the same as last year,” Price said.
Price agrees with the policy that was enforced on electronic devices, but doesn’t agree that she should have to leave her phone in her locker.
“I don’t mind not using my cell phone in class, but I don’t think my phone should be taken away just because a teacher sees I have it. Just because I am carrying my phone doesn’t mean I am using it,” Price said.
Even though there has been a ban on technology, in one sense teacher Michael O’Donnell is excited for the positive influences technology will bring this school year. O’Donnell teaches computer applications and business education.
“I look forward to two things at the beginning of the school year. The first is meeting new students and getting to know their personalities, the second is helping other teachers to use new technology in their classrooms. Technology can be very beneficial and positive for the students if used correctly in a learning environment,” O’Donnell said.
O’Donnell along with other school staff were grateful the first day went so smoothly. Secretary Mary Stephens was glad the only problems were students forgetting locker numbers and where to go.
Students and school staff are looking forward to another school year.
“I am glad to be back at school. It’s like I never left,” Molinani said. |
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Last Updated ( Friday, 29 August 2008 )
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