Cell Phones in Schools

This morning on CBC radio there was a discussion on the use of cell phones in high schools. There are problems with students text messaging and making calls during class time, and in more severe incidents the cameras are being used to film people in locker rooms and the videos are posted on You Tube. Some schools in the United States have banned cell phones completely. Students and parents argue that cell phones are useful for potential emergencies and for making arrangements for rides after school. Parents feel better knowing they can contact their child if necessary. The teacher being interviewed believes that these are valid reasons for students to carry cell phones, and doesn't think that phones should be completely banned from schools. However, rules regarding use need to be established and enforced. Inappropriate use of phones disrupts the learning environment for all students. I agree with this teacher; I think that banning phones is a little extreme, but rules need to be set and most importantly, enforced by teachers.