Watkins, "May I have your attention? - Sentiments and implications of a proposed ban of cellphones in NYC schools

According to Watkins, NYC schools sought to ban cell phone use at school. School officials argued that students used phones to "bully, isolate, and intimate their peers" and that camera phones allowed students to circulate inappropriate phones and cheat on assignments. Teachers also found cellphones to be a general nuisance and distraction in the classroom. Students responded emotionally and emphasized how cell phones were important aspects of their self expression and identity. Parents emphasized the practical safety and security aspects of cell phones, especially in regard to the need to communicate with their kids as they commute across town.