Courtney Carlson
Staff Writer

Cell phones are a huge problem nowadays, keeping students from falling asleep during lectures by enticing them with “Temple Run”, texting, and Facebook updates.

Teachers and administrators have recognized this problem and are prohibiting the use of these devices, as well as certain accessories used to hide them.

Most high school students can relate to the tough times in middle school when their phones were not allowed to be seen, even during class breaks. Some struggled with the depression that resulted from this requirement, while others used their creativity to outwit the strict cell phone codes.

Phones were stowed in backpacks, on students’ knees, and beside their nervously quivering legs during class time. Students who really think outside of the box have resorted to stashing cell phones in their boots.

But this clever hideaway has been discovered and those who choose to use it at Philadelphia’s Pottstown Middle School now face dire consequences.

These middle schoolers can receive one or more detentions if they violate the new rule, as well as the daunting possibility of a confiscated phone. The principal of these oppressed students had requested the ban early this year because of the so-called “disturbances” from ringing cell phones in class.

Although administrators who put this measure into action are on the right path in eliminating things that make school enjoyable, they have only attacked the tip of the iceberg.

Students will do anything to continue using their phones, which are hidden by Cal students in many creative places.

“I usually stick mine in my hair, since I don’t wear boots that can conceal my iPhone,” said junior Daniela Hernandez, fluffing her voluminous locks.

Others hollow out the Bible or other thick books to hide their phones, though this may be a problem occasionally. If a student is laughing at a text, or if their “novel” is making

“Fruit Ninja” sound effects, it might give away the crafty disguise. Asking to bring your book to the bathroom will also result in raised eyebrows.

Hats are another type dangerous accessories, allowing students to send texts with ease. To see the messages perched atop one’s head, glasses are the perfect tool as the
reflective surface can show the hidden text.

All a student has to do is pretend that he has dandruff, and every time he scratches his head, he can tap out a message to his fellow, itchy-headed friends.

Contraband items hidden on campus aren’t limited to just cell phones. Students are tempted to stash other items on their person, such as food and makeup.

“I always have duct tape with me,” said sophomore Jessica Ramsey, “which is easy to hide under a large sweatshirt.”

These sneaky measures taken by the students are compromising the system of education. Not only do cell phones distract their users, but their neighbors, who are overcome with curiosity of what their table mates are up to, can’t focus during class either.

Phones are also a huge problem during tests and quizzes, because collaboration between students is generally frowned upon by teachers. Cell phones are an easy way to cheat during tests, because they’re hard to detect, so teachers have to take drastic measures to ensure the integrity of test-takers.

“I started making my students take off their shoes and socks during tests,” said English teacher Sean King. “It’s becoming a big problem.”

Schools need to crack down on these campus criminals who are ruining the institution of learning. To start the fight against such disobedience, schools must ban anything that may conceal cell phones: books, hats, shoes, and hair.

This crime is the gateway to murder and identity theft. It’s vital that America unites and fights cell phones in schools.