Students now allowed to carry cell phones

by Megan Spangler

In previous years the policy of having cell phones on campus was that they were not allowed, but this year the policy has changed. Now, students are allowed to carry and use their cell phones (but not in the classroom). What changed? Governor Gray Davis signed a bill allowing students to carry cell phones.

The bill has not gone into effect yet but Yosemite High School Principal Steve Raupp says they are allowing them here already because "We made a move in anticipation of the law and have given permission under the guidelines at the time. We were trying to get ahead of things so that we wouldn’t have to go back and change things during the year."

Principal Raupp saw the need for his students to be in contact with their families in case of any emergency. It is an issue of school safety and changes in society.

The intent for cell phones is that they are used after school to talk to parents about a change of plans, not during passing period because that may cause students to be tardy to class.

After the bill goes into effect, Raupp and the school board will have to go back and formalize the cell phone policy. Specific guidelines will be drawn up so that students and parents are clear on the new policy.

Raupp says "I am glad that they have changed the policy as long as the students use their cell phones responsibly."