The permission of smartphones in K-12 age schools is a tricky topic.

On one hand, smartphones provide students instant access to educational resources that could help their studies, enhanced communication, support organization, enable interactive learning, and prepare them for responsible technology use in real life. On the other hand, kids can become reliant on their mobile devices, addicted even, especially to social media and feeling the need to be constantly connected to it even while they're in class. They may not be able to turn off the desire to text and post and scroll when their teacher is trying to get their attention. And then there's the matter of cheating and having the world wide web at their fingertips during exams.

Now, a school district in Putnam County, New York is more seriously exploring banning students from using smartphones starting the coming fall semester. 

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Carmel School District sees smartphones as a distraction during the school day and also a proponent of negative mental health among the student body. Students would reportedly only be permitted access to their mobile devices for educational purposes and in cases of emergency or if they possess a basic cell phone without internet capabilities, according to Mid Hudson News.

On Monday, June 16th at 5:30 p.m., Carmel School District is holding a forum in the Carmel High School library to discuss the proposal. Superintendent Erin Meehan-Fairben is encouraging parents and residents to attend to express their views on the matter. The proposal has some merits but could be met with opposition.

What are your thoughts on students being able to have their smartphones during the school day?