The debate over whether cell phones should be allowed in schools has become a hot topic of discussion among students, parents, and teachers in Niagara Falls. Niagara Falls School Superintendent Mark Laurrie is hoping that the decision regarding cell phone policies in schools will be left to individual districts, emphasizing the importance of local decision-making.
During Governor Hochul's listening tour at Kenmore West, she expressed her inclination to leave the decision to localities. While teachers and superintendents have encouraged her to make it a statewide decision, Laurrie firmly believes that school boards, elected by the community, should have the authority to make such decisions.
Laurrie acknowledges the unique circumstances and nuances that exist in each community across the state. He highlights that what may work in one district, such as Wilson, may not be applicable to Niagara Falls. As the superintendent, he believes that school boards are best positioned to understand the specific needs and dynamics of their respective communities.
While a ban on cell phones in schools is not currently on the table for the upcoming school year, state lawmakers are not scheduled to reconvene until January to consider potential legislation. Laurrie welcomes the ongoing conversation but points out the challenges of implementing and enforcing a ban in a district like Niagara Falls, which has a high school with 2,000 students.
Although the Niagara Falls School District has successfully managed cell phone usage in grades Kindergarten through 8, complexities arise when dealing with a large number of high school students carrying cell phones. Implementing a ban at the high school level would require careful consideration and planning.
One of the concerns raised by parents is the need to stay in communication with their children. Laurrie responds by highlighting that schools have functioned without cell phones in the past, and alternative means of communication can still be established. He also emphasizes the importance of considering potential emergency situations where parents rushing to the school premises could hinder the response of law enforcement and first responders. Laurrie wishes that parents would focus more on monitoring their children's online activities rather than advocating for in-school cell phone access.
As the conversation continues, Superintendent Laurrie remains committed to advocating for local decision-making on cell phone policies in Niagara Falls schools. He believes that by considering the unique needs and circumstances of the community the district can make the most informed and effective decisions regarding cell phone usage in schools.
Based on independent reporting and WBEN.