In addition to the no-phone policy, where students are required to put their phones in Yondr pouches, students are not allowed to use personal computers, Bluetooth devices, headphones or earbuds.

Although the new rules prohibiting the use of personal computers and Bluetooth headphones haven’t been the center of attention as much as the use of Yondr pouches, students still have strong negative feelings about them.

G. Wagner is a junior who has been using his personal MacBook since ninth grade.

“When they banned MacBooks, that just pissed me off,” said Wagner.

Part of what makes Wagner angry about the new rule is that he bought a computer that he is no longer allowed to use. Wagner went on to say that he was frustrated that he spent $2,000 on a MacBook that administrators say he can’t use.

Steven Pape, a vice principal, says he would prefer to use his personal computer, but still must use his school-issued computer.

“I understand the allure of wanting to use your own device. I often would rather use my own device than my school-issued one,” said Pape.

Pape said personal computers are not necessary for schoolwork.

“Any student work that we’re asking students to complete should be able to be accomplished on a Chromebook,” said Pape.

Pape said using school-issued computers also helps prevent security issues and off-task behaviors from students.

“So for us to be able to use Securly [a platform that monitors and bans websites] consistently, or other features to manage and monitor tech use, it’s important that students are using school-issued Chromebooks,” said Pape.

Students believe that they should be trusted to use personal computers in class.

“I’m not doing anything bad on it. When I log on to my computer, they can still see the tabs if I’m logged onto my school account, which doesn’t really change anything using your Chromebook,” said junior Nolawi Aklilu.

Along with frustration around computers, students don’t like the ban on Bluetooth headphones. Some students say listening to music helps them focus.

“Your AirPods, it’s just to listen to music, you know? And it’s the most accessible way to do that. [It] helps me focus [and] do better on school assignments,” said junior Edward Kemple.

School administrators do not see a problem with listening to music, said Pape, as long as it is not while the teacher is in the middle of instructions.

“I think it is possible under certain circumstances to use [headphones] as long as they’re wired and connected to a Chromebook,” said Pape.