No Cell Phones: STE Goes All In

This school year, Saint Thomas’ Episcopal School joined the growing number of schools banning cell phone use during the school day. The announcement from Head of Upper School, Mr. Tim Wainright, quickly sparked conversation among students and teachers.

The change, however, did not happen overnight. In the 2024–2025 school year, English teacher Ms. Erin Gray required students to place their phones in a "Phone Prison" at the start of each class, allowing them to retrieve the devices only when the bell rang. Other teachers had similar policies. However, that system allowed for phone use during homeroom, passing periods, and lunch—windows that disappeared this year. Now, upon arrival, students are expected to place their phones in labeled slots on a “phone cart,” where they remain until dismissal.

The shift has been met with a wide spectrum of reactions. Supporters of the policy, like Mr. Wainright, argue it moves STE toward being a “more academically honest school.” English teacher Ms. Amy Ernest also notes that many students had grown so accustomed to phones that real conversation took a back seat. She sees the rule as a step toward helping students reconnect socially and grow academically. Teachers also appreciate the smoother classroom transitions compared to the previous year because they no longer waste time collecting and returning phones.

Still, the ban has not come without complications. Teachers now face difficulties communicating with students during the day since email is no longer instantly accessible. Student organizations, too, have had to get creative. Hope Club president, junior Chinedu Abiaziem, recalls their first meeting this year: “When we usually would just add everyone to a GroupMe, I suddenly realized we couldn’t do that anymore.” What was once a matter of a few clicks now requires jotting down phone numbers with pen and paper. Other students are upset about not having phones even during lunch. “I understand not having phones during classes, but lunch too? I’m no longer able to check my email, listen to music, or show a funny meme I found to my friends,” sophomore Isha Rao says. Seniors in particular, who can go off campus for lunch, note the challenges of meeting up with friends without being able to send a quick message.

Still, some students say the adjustment hasn’t been as difficult as expected. Senior Saqib Memon explains, “Teachers were expecting us to struggle with letting go of our phones. It really wasn’t that bad.” Students have certainly proven the teachers wrong. Math teacher Ms. Kristen Alvarez agrees that she’s been impressed with how well students have adapted—aside from the occasional dramatic sigh or eye-roll.

Ultimately, the new rule has had its bumps, but it has also sparked more conversation—literally and figuratively. Phones may be locked away, but the excitement of a new school year hasn’t been quelled one bit. As the year continues, the goal is for students to stay engaged, connected, and represent what it means to be a STE Saint.