Are Morton students really not using their phones in class?
In a random survey of 92 Morton East students, 71 (or 71%) of them said they haven’t used their phone in class yet this year. According to U.S. News, over 90% of principals in a 2020 study supported restrictions on cellphone use for students in high schools, and over 80% said they believed that cellphone use during class has negative consequences for social development and academics. In addition, Google’s AI Overview, a study that happened back in 2023, found that 97% of teens use their phones during class. However, this 2025 school year, the amount of phone use has decreased to 77% due to public schools banning phone usage during class time. For this reason, schools like Kennedy High School in Chicago have added Yondr pouches in 2025.
Student Addison Gonzales agrees with staff about the phone policy being an issue. “I only use my phone when I’ve already completed my work.
Phones should still be used when needed,” said senior Addison Gonzales.
“I am extremely grateful for the new district phone policy! It creates a distraction-free zone that enhances learning. Yes! One and everyone else got the hint. I have not written one since then,” said teacher Erika Zacarias.
Student Steven Cartagena feels differently, disagreeing with Teacher Zacarias. “Yes, I have used my phone this school year. I don’t like it, but it does help students focus in doing their work at school,” said senior Steven Cartagena.
Student Damari disagrees with the phone policy. “The phone policy isn’t necessary because students are still going to use it regardless of what the rules are. Some teachers don’t even bother anymore to take phones away,” said senior Damari.
Morton staff agree with students about the phone policy not being necessary. “The phone policy isn’t necessary. I think phones should be allowed because they can be a great learning source and sometimes needed,” said staff Olga Alcantar.
Staff Olga Alcantar agrees with students that phone policies are useful. “The whole phone situation is just dumb because I would be focused on my work and still will have to turn my phone in before class starts. I just don’t think they need to take it,” said senior Dania Calixto.
