Smartphones have undoubtedly become a major distraction in the classroom. Teachers have a hard time keeping students engaged during the school day because they would rather scroll through social media or play games. It is understandable why Connecticut’s Gov. Ned Lamont and Commissioner of Education Charlene Russell-Tucker are advocating for stricter rules to prevent kids from using their phones in class.

However, as a concerned resident of Connecticut who recently graduated high school and witnessed this issue firsthand, I urge our state leaders to think about the problems that could arise from this situation if we take this too far.

In our state, some school districts are beginning to confiscate and secure students’ phones until the end of the day as part of a policy that goes beyond simply limiting phone usage. This may seem like a straightforward resolution to the problem. However, it is an extremely strict approach that could endanger students and undermine the trust that schools need to have with students and families in order to provide successful instruction.

In fact, phones are not just a distraction. They are also lifelines.

Students need to have immediate access to their phones in the event of an emergency at school, such as a lockdown, an active shooter or even an unexpected illness. Additionally, parents should be reassured that they can get in touch with their kids in an emergency. Think about how devastated a parent would be if they were frantically trying to get in touch with their child in an emergency and found out that the school had taken their child’s phone away for “safety.”

Furthermore, it is important to recognize the emotional and psychological benefits that communication gives our children. A simple text to a parent before an important exam or on a difficult day can offer the kind of support that schools are not always able to provide. Eliminating an important source of relief in a world where students’ mental health is already fragile seems irresponsible.

Another issue is the cooperation from students. Young people, particularly those in high school, will likely oppose giving up their phones entirely for the school day. If children feel that they are being controlled rather than supported, school will become a place where they argue instead of learn. If we want to help our students focus, we have to work with them, not against them.

It is important to understand that not every student gets lost in their cellphones. Many children come to school ready to learn, so it is unreasonable to punish everyone for the actions of a small group of people. We need to focus on addressing individual behaviors while creating an environment that encourages students who are committed to their academics.

Instead of taking phones away, let’s explore other options. In addition to giving clear guidelines in regard to when and where phones may be used during the school day, teachers should be supported in implementing no-phone-usage policies in their classrooms. Beyond that, there are devices that allow students to carry their phones with them but keep them secured unless they absolutely need to use them. These types of solutions ensure both safety and discipline.

It is clear that Gov. Lamont and Commissioner Russell-Tucker are worried about our students’ performance in school, and their concerns about distraction are valid. But good policies do not always result from good intentions. Let’s be truthful and open with parents, teachers and, most importantly, students before we take drastic actions. It is important to consider ways to minimize distractions while also protecting our children’s physical, emotional and mental well-being.

Smartphones may contribute to the issue, but if we use them properly, they can also help solve it.