This year, phone usage was banned from the upper school during school hours. The new device policy states that phones are not allowed to be out unless explicitly asked for by teachers; otherwise, phones seen or heard during the day will be confiscated. Given the new restrictions, students may find themselves experiencing boredom. This feeling heightens during lunch, the most social and open part of the school day. Thus, students must find different ways to entertain themselves. Here are some specific, offline things to do during lunch.
Lunch is the perfect opportunity to connect with people and socialize. With the absence of phones, students have a better opportunity to make close friends through deeper, longer, and more meaningful conversations. The ban enables students to make deeper connections. For example, when asked what she does during lunch this year, junior Michelle Xu described, “I’ve been getting to know the other people in my grade better, and I’ve also been enjoying the junior patio.”
For someone who prefers a quieter, less social option, a great way to spend time productively during lunch is to catch up on homework or study for an upcoming test. Instead of procrastinating, lunch is a great time to use as an extra study hall without the distraction of phones, especially if your test is next period. It can even be used to schedule a meeting with a teacher!
The library stores a vast collection of games that can be played inside or outdoors on the library patios. From chess to Uno, there are many possibilities. Senior Daniela Watson commented, “I think it’s a really good upgrade considering last year they didn’t have as many activities except one or two board games, but this time there’s a lot more and I think it really connects to the themes of bringing our community together.” Seeking out people to play cards with or teaching friends how to play a board game is a great way to meet new people and have some fun.
When students find themselves bored at lunch and just wish that they could take out their phones and scroll, they should reconsider. Instead of scrolling, students can make better use of their time by working on something academic, socializing or participating in library recreation. There’s a whole world out there beyond our screens, and lunch is the perfect time to get out and experience it. Finally, if you want to connect a little extra with the Poly community, read The Paw Print!
