By Gihan Rachid

Everyone does it. Some do it secretly in the bathroom. Some take the risk of doing it during class time. Checking their cell phones, that is.

Almost every day, students witness teachers and administration holding cell phones and other electronic devices of those students who were unafraid to use them during the school day. Unfortunately for those students, they had to wait until after school to get them back. Sometimes even with a parent present.

On Sept. 9, that changed.

The new policy that went into effect states that while on campus, students will be allowed to use their devices not just before and after school, but also during  with nutrition and lunch.

On Aug. 27, the School Site Council proposed revision to a school policy: being The Electronic Device Policy was approved unanimously.

“I feel confident that the students here will respect of the releasing of cellphone use and act responsibility,” Principal Deborah Smith said.

The previous Electronic Device Policy strictly prohibits cell phone use during the school day. The policy allowed electronics to be used before and after school only. The policy also indicates that all electronics must be “turned off and out of sight during school hours.”

It goes into detail saying headphones, earbuds, wires or any other attachments designed for any sort of electronics will be confiscated as well.

“Students find it impossible to put down their phones during the day,” senior Yvonne Gonzalez said at the School Site meeting.

“I’m really for it and I know most students will be as well,” said senior Waldir Henriquez, who also spoke infront of the council.

However, electronics must still be turned off or on silent and out of sight during passing periods and class time. Also, if any student is caught “listening to, watching, or capturing inappropriate material, they will have their phone confiscated immediately” at any time of the school day.