School Leadership 2.0

I have a grown son with autism and I need to be able to allow him or the job center to contact me at all times.

There are other communication means. I would propose teachers follow the rules when students are in the classroom but can use their devices during preps and at lunch. So if there is a matter they need to attend to, they can.

If not, what are we modeling?

You do not want to have “a do as I say, not as I do policy.” That will only create ill feelings among the students.

Teachers need access to their cell phones in case of an emergency.

Teachers should be allowed cell phones. Technology at times breaks down… as a former Principal, I had backup plans for everything— no electricity.. computer down, etc. Different from student use!

Adults need to be responsible and keep their phones locked away for easy access in the event of an emergency. There should be consequences and progressive discipline for teachers caught using them during class time.

As we see more and more violent attacks in schools, while my reaction at the beginning of the year was even students didn’t need them, the events of the past week have changed my mind. Instead, we need to model and insist on stopping distractions

If a teacher is using a cell phone in a professional manner such as contacting parents through apps or taking pictures of student activities to post then they should have access. Any personal use of cell phones during class should be banned.

I have mixed feelings. Because it is a personal communicator and computer, it can be extremely distracting. It should not be out and should be silenced when around students.

But if they decide not to participate then they should have their cell phones away and not seen!