The new school year brings new school policies to Wake County. Schools are implementing new, stricter policies when it comes to cell phone usage and absences to curb distractions and excess skipping. Consequences this year compared to those before are different, and the parameters on which student conduct should be conducted has changed. 

Starting this year, seniors may not be exempt from final exams if they have ten or more absences (excused or unexcused) in a semester. These absences apply to the courses which are missed. Students are not exempt from any state examination. Students must also maintain a B grade level or higher in their class to be exempt from the exam. Additionally , consequences for excess absences and failing grades may result in lunch pass revocation.  Click here to find out more about that. 

New policies rolling out around the county may deal with cell phone usage in class. Teachers’ protocol on cell phones may vary from classroom to classroom, but students must comply with the given guidelines. According to the Apex High School student handbook, students must not have their phones, headphones, or earbuds visible during class time unless a teacher gives explicit permission to the students to grab and use those devices. A warning will be given first to those who don’t comply before disciplinary action is taken, and the cell phone/listening device will be confiscated for the day. This is part of a county-wide initiative to cut down on cell phone usage and distractions so that class runs more smoothly, and students are engaged and listening to their content and assignments. 

The new policies have been actively enforced so far this school year, and many students are already upset about the new changes this year. Most contended is  the absence policy affecting students whether the absence was excused or unexcused and including school-related trips like college visits. However, there does not seem to be any sign of any new policy changing soon. 

School board officials and administrators are hoping that the new rules will make Apex a more attentive learning environment.