Let Us Use Our Phones at Lunch: Restore Freedom in Pasco Schools!

To the Pasco County School Board,

I am writing on behalf of many students in Pasco County to respectfully request the reinstatement of phone use during lunch periods across our schools. We believe this policy change would not only benefit students’ well-being but also support responsible digital citizenship and communication.

Lunchtime is one of the few unstructured parts of our school day—a moment to decompress, connect with friends, and recharge mentally. Allowing phones during this time gives students the opportunity to listen to music, message family members, check in on personal matters, and even catch up on homework or class updates. These small freedoms can make a big difference in reducing stress and promoting a more positive school experience.

We understand the need to maintain focus during instructional time, but lunch is not instructional time. Most students are capable of using their devices respectfully, especially when clear expectations are in place. Instead of banning phones altogether, we propose a compromise: allow phone use during lunch with guidelines to prevent misuse.

We believe that teaching responsible use of technology, rather than avoiding it, is key to preparing students for life beyond school. Reinstating phones at lunch would demonstrate trust in students, foster a more balanced school environment, and reflect the realities of the digital world we live in.

Thank you for your time and consideration. We hope you will listen to the voices of students and reconsider this policy for the betterment of our schools.

Sincerely,

Kevin Brage, Jonathan Chicha

Chasco Middle School 

7th Grade