While Prep’s new device use policy has many benefits, such as expanded socialization and enhanced focus around campus, students feel some negative consequences. Though the rule changes are understandable, there should be fewer restrictions, specifically surrounding headphones.
Students are no longer allowed to use headphones recreationally, which has created a divide between students and teachers. I struggle with focusing, especially around conversing peers, so I often studied and completed homework in the library last year. However, the library is presently under construction, rarifying quiet space on campus. Though I understand why listening to music for the purpose of singing along or hearing a beat can be distracting, it greatly benefits students who listen to classical or instrumental music. Sometimes, I am filled with overwhelming stress and need my relaxing Spotify playlists to help me recollect.
I recently spoke with Akemi Fu, a junior, and asked for her opinion on the policy. She replied, “I like having the policy because it allows me to focus during my free periods.” She adds, however, that she has found difficulty adjusting to the new guidelines, highlighting “I can’t listen to music freely, and it is hard to communicate with my friends when I can’t find them during frees and Community Blocks and Fridays, when I need to find my friends to go to lunch. I also can’t take photos to capture memories, which was a core aspect of last year that I love to look back on.”
On September 5th, the administration hosted its first town hall meeting, fostering discussion about the device use policy. The town hall answered many students’ questions and welcomed their counterarguments. Questions surrounding school dances were widely asked. Students learned that the device use policy is in effect at dances to encourage more live social interactions. However, cameras are allowed because they are less distracting than phones. While the headphone policy remains in place, administrators welcomed student feedback on the topic.
Debates circulate almost daily about the device use policy. Overall, the policy has been working: small talk has increased, and there have been healthier interactions and more beneficial free periods with fewer distractions. Yet, the restrictions surrounding headphones, music and photography have frustrated some students. Hopefully, the administration will become more aware of these opinions and compromise with students by adjusting some rules to address their concerns.
