The new Missouri no cell phone law has been the talk of Winnetonka High School, as it is a recent statewide rule affecting all schools in the district. The no cell phone law was introduced on July 1st, 2025. Under this rule, students are not allowed to use any Bluetooth devices, such as wireless headphones or phones, during school hours, including lunch and passing periods. Administrators believe the policy is necessary because it reduces disruptions and helps restrict online bullying.
Students and teachers have had mixed feelings about it; some dislike it, some think it is good, and many Tonka students share similar opinions about the policy. I interviewed a few students and teachers to hear their thoughts, and here are some of their responses:
Junior Addie Ridgley supports the no cell phone policy but feels it goes too far during certain times. She says, “I think it gets to a limit. It is okay because it allows more communication, but it is stupid when it comes to lunch and passing.”
Staff member Janlana Childs agrees with the policy’s intent. “I think it is good because it removes any grey area in our learning, and it allows us to hold our staff accountable,” she says, adding that it helps prevent issues not only with students but also with teachers.
Junior Olivia Artis and sophomore Omunique Stewart both believe that the rule against headphones is a bit much because music can be necessary for some students to focus.
Junior Luke Young has a mixed opinion. “I think it’s good and bad. It’s good because there’s a problem with kids paying attention and not focusing on their studies. However, it’s bad because how are we supposed to teach our kids about the responsibility of not using phones or using them at the correct time?” he points out, highlighting the importance of teaching responsibility.
Junior Aurora Hernandez does not like the policy, especially for safety reasons. “I don’t like it at all because how is someone supposed to get in contact with anyone during emergencies and whatnot?” she says, concerned about possible safety issues.
Junior Rayshawn Williams dislikes not being able to use his phone during lunch and passing periods. “I think it’s terrible to not be able to see my phone during lunch and passing because I’m not learning anything during those times, and it allows me to have that short break. But I think it could be a good cause because phones can cause distractions during class,” he explains.
Students and teachers share many similar opinions about this new policy. Both groups are working together to overcome the challenges this new law presents.
