Classroom Management - Cell Phones in Class

Today I had a conversation with a vendor about the future of laptops in schools.  I tend to think that future technology education purchases will involve a variety of devices. 

We all know students are addicted to their cell phones.  Let's face - so are a lot of teachers!  Well, one school, Haverstraw Middle School, has a new pilot program that distributes cell phones to students.  The phones have calls and texts disabled but the devices are Internet capable. 

Managing technology, especially technology that can be easily hidden under a desk while a teacher runs class, is a challenge. 

This kind of technology requires clear behavior expectations, consistent reminders of polite behavior (what I think many adults need too...) and specific ramifications for poor technology choices.  Never be afraid of taking a device if you designed that consequence.  If a bad grade can be the result of poor behavior - that lesson should be quickly learned in your room.