Students and staff at De Soto High School are making a transition to the new rules that have been set by Principal Mark Meyer for the 2012-13 school year.

In the past, students at DHS were able to use their cell phones during passing period, and some teachers would allow students to listen to music during work time, but Meyer is redefining how the school day looks.

“After receiving input from teachers, I had to really define the school day, and I want to remove distractions from the academic setting,” Meyer said.

Along with cell phones, Meyer also removed iPods and other music players, not just because it is a distraction, but it also removes the school from being liable for theft or damages.

“There is a huge difference in technology, and it pushes peer pressure to get the biggest and best,” Meyer said. “I have worked on property damage and theft cases in schools for 12 years, and I want to keep those types of situations to a minimum.”

Now that electronic devices become less of a liability, staff and faculty can focus more on what they teach without distractions, like a buzzing in a student’s pocket or bag.

Meyer is also reviewing incentive programs like Early Release.

“I have mixed emotions on Early Release because Seminar is an academic study hall that students should take an advantage of, but I do not want to treat it like it is a reward to miss school either,” Meyer said.

Meyer’s goal for this school year is to achieve balance and to have academics become the main priority for students, not the latest trend on Twitter. Students should not expect to see these privileges gained anytime soon.

“I am really impressed with how students have responded to my policies, and the students who do not agree have handled themselves in a first class manor,” Meyer said.

Cell phones and music devices have been removed, and Early Release is under review. DHS is moving forward under new leadership and positive student response is starting off on a good note.