A large number of students staged a protest by walking out of Madison High School on Thursday in response to the implementation of a new phone policy. However, students assert that this action was a culmination of long-standing issues.
According to student Madison Rittenhouse, the catalyst for the walkout was not solely the new phone policy, but rather the ongoing problems of fights, weapon incidents, and drama among students. The school has been in the news throughout the year, with this week alone witnessing multiple fights, a school lockdown, and the introduction of the new policy.
Students argue that the phone policy poses a significant safety concern. One student expressed worry about not having immediate access to their phone in case of an emergency, stating, “If my phone is in the office and someone decides they’ve had enough and they come and shoot the school up and my phone is in the office with you guys, so I can’t contact my mother, I cannot get home. I cannot see who is going to take me home.” Another student highlighted a personal incident where a friend’s mother ended up in the hospital, but due to the school holding her phone, she was unable to be contacted until after the fact.
The Houston Independent School District (HISD) explained the new rule, emphasizing the restriction on phone use within the school building. Phones are only permitted in mesh or see-through backpacks and must be kept inside a backpack or turned in upon entering the building or at the start of the first period. High school students may use their phones in the cafeteria or eating area during lunch, subject to approval by the Division Superintendent. At Madison High School, students are required to turn in their phones upon arrival and receive them back at the end of the day. The restriction on phone usage during lunch is attributed to phone videos being at the center of recent fights on campus, endangering the safety of students and staff.
Students also expressed discontent with the overall learning environment, which they claim is distracting, despite the new Education System’s strict schedule. They feel that their concerns extend beyond phone usage and impact their ability to receive a quality education. “I don’t even feel safe. I really do want to have a good education. I’m a senior, I’m ready to go, I’m ready to go, and they’re making this really hard for us,” said Rittenhouse.
When approached about the phone policy, state education leaders stressed the importance of creating a conducive learning environment that allows students to focus. They believe that setting students up for success is crucial in achieving educational objectives.
Following the walkout, students reported facing potential consequences. Some were not allowed back into the school, while others were warned of possible suspensions upon reentry. The Houston Independent School District did not provide a specific response regarding the repercussions students may face.
