AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – More than 6,000 petition signatures join the chorus of voices calling on Richmond County schools to revise their blanket ban on cell phones, smartwatches and headphones.

The conversations surrounding cell phones and technology in the classroom are nothing new.

But this policy is facing resistance from students and parents who say it is not the right way to go about things.

We spoke to the student who started the petition about what changes he would like to see.

A new school year means new guidelines.

“Headphones, earplugs or anything like that are not allowed to be taken out. You have to have it in your pocket or put it in your backpack. If they see you take it out during the day, they can take it,” said Hayden Griffin-Dunbar.

Griffin-Dunbar is a 12th grader in the Richmond County school system.

“When we had a break at work, what we call school work, we were supposed to be able to use our phones. But when we had a lunch break, we couldn’t use our phones,” Griffin-Dunbar said.

If they are in possession of their phone, they face up to four offenses under school policy: from confiscation of the phone until the end of the school day to suspension for 10 school days, a meeting with parents and a three-day suspension from school, or even expulsion.

“I’m not saying students should be allowed to have their phones on them all day. They can do whatever they want. I mean, we should be allowed to have our phones on us during lunch and breakfast. At least allow us to listen to music sometimes, or when we’re done with work. Does it make sense to not allow us to have our phones at all?” Griffin-Dunbar said.

READ THE GUIDELINES:

And many others agree. Comments on the petition show that parents and students are expressing concerns about the new policy, particularly regarding safety, emergencies, and communication throughout the day.

“I’m glad that people are finally realizing that the cell phone rules are a little too brutal, and I’m glad that it’s not just the students who agree with me, like students who want to be on their phones all day. I’m glad it’s not just that. It’s the parents too,” Griffin-Dunbar said.

And he hopes that if students take action and raise their voices, it will make a difference.

“Speak respectfully, because at the end of the day, you are not educating anyone,” Griffin-Dunbar said.

We have reached out to the Richmond County School District several times, but have not received a response.

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