Student-led petition over Augusta schools' phone policy gains more than 4,000 signatures

Many of Augusta's students are not happy with the Richmond County School System's new cell phone policy and they are voicing that opposition.

An anonymous individual who has only referred to themself as a Richmond County student started a petition on change.org on Saturday. As of Tuesday morning it had about 4,300 signatures. Here are some of their comments:

• "Richmond County has gone too far with this new phone policy for schools. They are trying to be our parents when they are not. Many teachers use QR codes to share important information but with the total ban they can't do that."
• "The district is justified in not wanting cell phones being used during the majority duration of the class. However, my cell phone is a tool and I need it to login to online classes, stay organized in assignments, effectively navigate sources, and to be able to communicate with my family in emergencies."
• "If a student is uncomfortable with something going on at school they should have the option to tell a parent or administrator via online if they are afraid to say it in real life."

The new policy went into effect this school year and prohibited the use of all cell phones, smart watches, headphones, and earbuds for all students at all times of the instructional day. This includes any areas of the campus from the time students step foot on the property to the time they leave. A first offense of this rule will mean a temporary device confiscation. Multiple offenses can ramp up the punishment to suspension.

High school football: 2024 schedules, complete coverage for Augusta-area programs

The petition's creator listed their own thoughts in the description. Here is an excerpt:

"I strongly believe that phones should not be indiscriminately confiscated from every student, as a blanket response to the inability of curriculum and teachers to manage their usage effectively. Mobile phones have become an integral part of our lives, with numerous applications in the education sector. They can facilitate communication between parents and children, provide educational apps for learning, and can be a critical tool in emergencies. Why, then, should every student be deprived of their use?"

The petition's creator went on to clarify that they are not suggesting students be allowed to use their devices whenever, only that the policy be loosened up.

Students can make emergency calls in the main office. Parents may contact their children by calling the school’s main office. School office staff are able to relay emergency messages from parents to students. Students with serious medical conditions or other unusual circumstances may be given special permission by their principals to use a cell phone if it's essential to the student's health.

This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Student-led petition over Augusta schools' phone policy gains more than 4,000 signatures