As a high school student, I see how technology shapes nearly every aspect of my day, from communication to academics to student leadership roles. But with constant access to technology, staying focused, respecting policies, and responsibly integrating AI into my work has presented a learning curve. Here’s how I’m navigating these technology challenges and opportunities.

Managing Cell Phone Use in a “No-Phone” School

Jacqueline Rogers. PHOTO COURTESY OF JACQUELINE ROGERS

At my school, cell phones are strictly prohibited from bell to bell. The intention is clear: less distraction, more focus on learning. But in a world where phones are part of every moment, staying off them isn’t as easy as it sounds. I rely on the Study Bunny app, which turns focus into a game to manage my phone use. With each task completed, I “level up,” collecting points or rewards for time spent without looking at my phone. At the same time, I can get new clothes and home improvements for my bunny, making studying fun. This small incentive is surprisingly effective, keeping me accountable. More importantly, the app reminds me that breaking my dependence on my phone can improve both my focus and productivity—a message I’d probably ignore if it came from a teacher instead of an app.

A total ban on phones at school has its benefits, reducing classroom distractions and encouraging face-to-face interactions. But it also limits the freedom we’re used to and can feel restrictive when you just want to check something quickly or listen to music during independent work. To adapt, I’ve had to learn to be patient and sometimes even find workarounds, like making sure I’ve downloaded any necessary study materials at home. It’s a reminder of how dependent we are on our phones but also a push to think critically about what we actually need them for.

Integrating AI in Schoolwork

AI tools have become invaluable in my academic work, especially for self-assessment and feedback. When I write essays, I can run them through Studyable, an AI tool using the rubric my teacher provides. It grades my work, flags areas where I can improve, and provides suggestions for rephrasing or adding details. Using AI in this way has become like having a personal editor, helping me recognize my writing habits and strengths while saving time on rewrites.

For example, I recently used ChatGPT to help clarify cellular respiration: a biology concept that wasn’t sticking from class. Within seconds, it provided several explanations, each breaking down the idea in a new way. I find that having these different explanations can make challenging topics more accessible and less intimidating.

Our school’s AI policy is still evolving, but the rule is clear: AI should supplement our learning, not replace it. Copying and pasting AI-generated answers into assignments is off-limits and can lead to disciplinary action. While using AI for shortcuts would be tempting, I see the policy as a reminder to value my learning journey. Relying on AI to get work done faster is one thing, but bypassing the learning process entirely is counterproductive.

Our school’s AI policy is still evolving, but the rule is clear: AI should supplement our learning, not replace it.

On the positive side, AI can accelerate feedback and make complex subjects more approachable. I can get personalized explanations without feeling the pressure to ask questions in class. However, the drawbacks are equally significant. Overreliance on AI can lead to a sense of dependency. There’s a risk of valuing convenience over genuine understanding, which can ultimately hinder long-term growth.

AI in Student Leadership

AI has also found its way into my role as a student leader and during my campaign for National Student Council office. Crafting the right social media message to engage an audience can be a challenge, but AI tools can help. For example, I can input key points I want to convey and let the AI tool suggest a few catchy captions or hashtags. For my campaign, I went with the slogan, “Let’s Bloom Together and Vote for Jacqueline.” My theme was plants, and AI helped me craft captions and posts that tied everything together while saving time. This assistance ensured clarity and boosted engagement, allowing me to focus more on the big picture of my campaign rather than getting bogged down in phrasing.

Using AI this way is a form of creative support. I’m still the one generating ideas and driving the message, but with a bit of AI assistance to polish the final product. It’s like having an extra team member who helps reach our audience in a relatable, timely way.

Responsible AI Use and Self-Discipline

The integration of technology and AI in education is still unfolding, and so are my views on their roles in my life. The biggest takeaway has been learning to use these tools responsibly. Whether it’s setting boundaries around my phone usage or thinking critically about the right way to use AI in my assignments, technology is teaching me self-discipline and intentionality. The digital world will only keep expanding, but I’m learning that not every notification deserves my attention, and not every shortcut is worth taking.

Navigating technology in school has been a balancing act—sometimes tricky but ultimately rewarding. It’s about finding the tools that support my goals, acknowledging the distractions that don’t, and embracing the responsibilities of this new digital era.

Jacqueline Rogers is a senior at Jefferson City High School in Jefferson City, MO, and vice president of service for the National Student Council.