This year, the state of Massachusetts announced that schools should plan for the state to be forcing a full ban on cell phones in its schools by 2026. This means that Triton, too, would have to accommodate the state law, as long as it is passed by the House of Representatives this January. 

As of today, it has officially been a month since Triton set down its new cell phone policy. Students must put their cell phones in a cell phone holder once they get to their assigned class after the bell. Fortunately, students are allowed to freely use their cell phones in between classes and during lunch. 

As a result, many students have been more focused, according to the administrators of Triton. 

“I love the policy, I think the cell phone free policy allows them to take a breath, get more focus, and it’s a mental health vacation from the internet, “ said assistant principal Mr. Joseph Celia. 

Now that students can’t use their phones, some students expect teachers to reciprocate by putting their phones away as well. 

When asked about this topic, Mr Celia said: “I’m leading by example and taking time off from my phone while in between classes and lunch, I use it. However, we’re also adults and we have adult issues, so there may be a time when we have to use it during class time.”

So far, the policy isn’t as strict as people thought it would be. Some students have given positive reviews about the policy to teachers, while teachers have praised the policy to the administrators. More students have been focused and are becoming more vocal in classes, teachers and administrators say. At the same time, teachers can teach classes without having to worry about students losing focus due to the distractions that phones cause in the class. However, that doesn’t mean there still aren’t problems with the rule.

When asked about her opinion on the policy itself, assistant principal Mrs. Elizabeth Pacheco said it may be time to consider the next step. 

“Teachers are so excited about the cellphone policy, so that’s wonderful that we can help,” said Pacheco. “We try to support the teachers with everything. As far as problems, though, I would say it’s more of a question of, do we explore doing (a cell phone ban) from the start to the end of the day? Kids are shifting to Google Chat to communicate.” 

This sparks another question on whether the policy is going to be more restrictive during the 2026-2027 school year. Superintendent Mr. Brian Forget said the schools are exploring options.   

“It might be more restricting.. I think what we’re doing now is more helpful. Though I would rather make decisions that have a local decision.”