For the 2025-26 school year, all personal electronic devices have been banned throughout the state. This decision has had people talking, and rightfully so. The electronics banned are phones, laptops, headphones and anything else that distracts you in class.

When I first found out about this state-wide ban, I was upset. Being in a class with no friends was something I have dealt with throughout the years, and being able to use my phone and isolate myself with TikTok and music would always help me, as it would distract me from my surroundings and help me learn.

Although I was worried about how a situation like that would affect me this year, I can say that not having the phone as a distraction this year has benefited me so far this year in terms of talking to people. This ban has given me the opportunity to engage in conversations with people I have never met before, giving me the chance to make new friends, and even helped me step out of my comfort zone when speaking, which is a great thing for not only school, but life in general.

Last school year was one of my best, as I saw an improvement in my work ethic and grades, but this year has been better. Without my phone, I have found myself working harder than ever in classes like Algebra 3, Physics and even Art. These improvements are because of having no distractions. Being on my phone in class was always a major issue for me and would lead to me slacking off in classes, which dropped my grades.
Given all these positives so far in the school year, what was my greatest fear turned into one of the best outcomes for me.

Yes, having no music stings, but being able to communicate with new people, make good grades and still be able to enjoy my time at school is all I wanted from this ban.