Now more than ever, technology plays an important part in our everyday life, phones especially. 

Students are currently advised to put their phone in a caddy, which doesn’t always prevent phone usage in class. Furthermore, many schools are failing to enforce the no-phone policy while the state is trying to pass the transformative bill S.B. 302. 

According to kansasreflector, under the bill, students wouldn’t be allowed to use cellphones or other electronic communication devices, smartwatches and earbuds during the school day, which includes passing period and lunch time, unless the student is allowed to leave school grounds during lunch.

This bill has sparked controversy, and many people like me think that for the upcoming 2026-27 school year, it will be a nightmare.

The bill has been trying to get passed for months, and as of Feb. 17, with 76 in favor and 45 against, it was sent to the senate. Moreover, the opposing representatives are worried about parent backlash and how it will affect districts. Additionally, many states have passed similar bills and are in favor, however, of maintaining the inclusion of private and public schools.

As a junior who is going to be a senior soon, I believe that this bill is very intrusive and annoying.

For some classes, such as Yearbook or Newspaper, we use our phones predominantly in class for interviews and digital media. In addition, if an emergency occurs, taking the time to get your phone back can be time-consuming and prevent quick action.