For the 2025-26 school year, NDB introduced a new phone policy that has reshaped how students interact around campus, making it one of the most noticeable policies implemented in recent years. Now, classrooms are utilizing plastic bins to store phones and restricting the usage of these devices during class time, prompting mixed reactions about whether it is helping or hurting life at school.
Head of School Meredith Essalat ‘98 shared how this policy developed, stating, “… it is something that a number of faculty members have been talking to me … over the last two years, I would say. The box idea was because I’ve done the box myself before, and it’s just so basic, and just seems like it could be very easily replicated …”
The impact of this new policy has been felt by students, with many individuals having differing opinions regarding this new implementation. However, as the school year has progressed, some of those opinions have changed since students have begun to notice the favorable effects.
“I thought it was [not the best] at first, but then I realized that it really is not bad because I should be focusing [in] class anyways,” said sophomore Audrey Johnston.
For some, these new rules allow students to engage more meaningfully with their classmates and work more efficiently, fostering a positive learning environment.
“I feel like I’ve been a lot more efficient at completing my work without my phone, than if I did have my phone. So, I’m … thankful that they … took it away … So, it kind of forces me to work … [I]n Collab, I work really well, and I find myself talking to my [peers] a lot,” shared junior Minna Al-Dabbagh.
Others have emphasized that having fewer distractions helps their ability to stay on task, overall improving their concentration. In today’s fast-paced world, this policy allows students to step away from their devices and focus on what is truly important in the moment.
“I think it has [helped me focus more in class] because not having it next to me doesn’t make me want to pick it up and check it. Because, when it’s next to you, you [might think], ‘What if I’m missing something?’” stated freshman Sydney Burnett.
Even though students may not be deprived of their devices in the future, these new rules are helping them build healthy habits of managing their screen time by reducing their time online.
“… Nowhere else [after high school] are they taking away your phone … You’re just going to have to learn to live with the fact that your phone’s gonna be there, [and] you will have to stay off of it,” said senior Juliette Ramirez.
While this transition may have been difficult for some students, Essalat has been impressed with how students have adapted to this policy.
“… You all have handled it all so gracefully … Just my admiration for how you all have endeavored with us on this. It’s been so amazing,” said Essalat.
Although this policy has sparked debate, its goal is to help students become less inclined to reach for their phones, creating balance and mindfulness throughout the day. These new rules will continue to shape how students learn and become a defining part of life at NDB.
