MOUNDS VIEW, Minn. -- There was a time when getting ready for school meant new books, pencils and calculators. Now it's tablets and smartphones.
Lauren Redmond, a freshman at Mounds View High School, knows all about iPhones. Her school is now allowing students to use personal electronic devices in the classroom. Lauren said her iPhone will help her stay organized and give her access to information.
"I can go on Google and if I don't know an answer to something and we're in groups I can quick search it," she said.
The Mounds View School District Technology Policy recognizes there are dangers in allowing students to use these devices, but state that the educational benefits outweigh the potential harms. Lauren's mom, Donette Redmond, agrees.
"It's another tool for research, for taking notes, just for data collection, data usage that might make them more productive," Donette said.
The Minneapolis School District is also joining in the movement. Last month board members approved a similar technology measure. In a note to the school board, Superintendent Bernadeia Johnson said having personal devices in the classroom can contribute to a student's academic success.
Lauren said her iPhone has already helped her in the classroom. In fact, she typed an entire essay on her iPhone last spring. Donette said as long as Lauren follows the rules she has no problem with a smartphone in the classroom.
"They know that there are websites they can visit and websites that they have no business visiting. So the same rules that apply at home apply anywhere," Donette said.
The Mounds View policy states the use of technology is a privilege not a right. Anyone who violates the rules will have their privileges revoked.
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