I am an 8th grader at Dimner Beeber Middle School and I disagree with the cell phone policy (listed below): The use of cell phones and other telephonic devices (e.g. : text messengers) is extremely disruptive of the educational environment. Cell phone use during school hours also reduces the safety of everyone in the school building. The School District of Philadelphia’s Code of Student Conduct was adopted to support a safe learning environment for the entire school community. The District’s policy regarding the use of cell phones reads as follows: If a student brings a beeper, cell phone or telephonic device to school it will be confiscated and returned only to the parent or guardian of the student. ..upon a second violation or if the device is used during the commission of a crime the school will confiscate the device and it will not be returned. The Principal may donate the item to charity or sell items with proceeds going to a school use. There will be no exceptions. Thank you for your support and cooperation. I STRONGLY disagree with this policy; it isn't practical. A rule should be put in place where phones are silenced and in backpacks during class. I think children today need a cell phone simply for safety sake. In today’s society , a cell phone is a necessity for any child old enough to be able to use it in an emergency. Cell phones are a safety feature in a world that has become unsafe and unfriendly especially to children. How many adults feel safer knowing they have a cell phone in their possession, not simply for talking to friends, but “just in case.” How much more necessary is for a child to have one on their person “just in case?” School policies are not always made to benefit all students. The disallowing of cell phones because of misuse by a minority of students is unfair to the majority who would adhere to the rule of no phone use in classes. I know that most students would limit their phone use to before and after school, and for emergency calls. Cell phones are not only convenient, they are one more way for parents to stay connected with their child and know they’re safe (especially in the neighborhood we live and go to school in). So lets petition to have the policy changed