By Larissa Moore, GHS Student Intern

On April 10, Governor Janet Mills passed a law enforcing a bell-to-bell phone ban starting in August. Across the country, cell phones have become an ongoing distraction from many students’ academic focus and motivation. The Maine legislature decided to take a step forward in order to improve school environments and eliminate the distraction of cellular devices. 

Gorham’s superintendent, Heather Perry, has announced that the Gorham School District will take a “minimalistic” approach to abide by this law. 

Gorham schools will require their students to keep their phones out of sight from the first morning bell, until the end of the school day. They won’t, however, be required to use the “Yonder pouches,” which is a new phone locking system that is becoming more popular in schools across Maine.

Superintendent Perry noted, “School is first and foremost a place for learning. While technology certainly plays a role, we already provide the tools students need to create, collaborate, and engage academically. Personal cell phones are not essential to that work and often compete with it.” 

As Perry said, technology truly is an amazing educational tool; but students have to learn self regulation, and be able to balance using technology for pleasure and using technology for their education. 

Not only is this new policy important for academic growth, but it is also important for students to build social connections and gain responsibility.

Gorham Schools recognizes that the distraction of cell phones goes far beyond the classroom and they strive to help their students develop healthy technological habits that they can carry on into their future. 

“Our students are thoughtful, adaptable, and already understand that this is a consistent expectation being implemented across schools in Maine.” Superintendent Perry said, “At the end of the day, this policy shift is about reducing distractions so students can be more successful and fully engaged.”