On September 16, MV students were shocked to discover that the admin has now begun to restrict wi-fi access from students.

This decision to restrict comes just about two years after the wi-fi password was leaked to students, coming at a random time.

“In reality, students should have never had access to wi-fi on their devices. It came to my attention that students had access to the wi-fi so I took the necessary steps. As stated in the student handbook ‘To maintain a quiet and orderly learning environment, students are not allowed to use or have on their person, use or Have turned on any electronic communication and/or cellular telecommunication devices while at Mt. Vernon Township High School upon entering the building or during class time,” described Mrs. Gina Williamson, CTE Department.

Many involved students on campus are upset by the decision, as many club reporters and other officers struggle to complete their tasks due to Chromebook restrictions.

These restrictions leave officers no choice but to do their work at home, which piles on more work to do outside of the classroom.

“As HOSA Reporter, the new wi-fi restrictions make it difficult to make posts and flyers,” explained Alana Anderson, ‘26.

“It (wi-fi restrictions) affects me drastically because I’m not allowed to use my phone for research,” said MV FBLA Reporter Ellie Hall.

Though Mrs. Williamson said “The students have Chromebooks for their educational needs,” studious members of the MV student body also find problems with the straightforward restriction of specific websites, stunting academic growth.

“Sometimes resources that step-by-step explain problems are blocked and it is frustrating,” stated MV Student Council First Vice President Lillie Myers, ‘25.

However, there are some alternatives to the restriction problem.

“If their Chromebooks do not allow access to certain websites, they can try using a desktop computer. If the desktop computer does not allow access to those websites then it generally means they should not be on those websites. Those websites can be reviewed and possibly allowed,” Mrs. Williamson suggested.

Many students don’t have time to make their way to a desktop computer, and teachers don’t want students interrupting their class.

“In my schedule, there isn’t enough time for me to go to a different room just to access a website. I have important classes to attend and I feel that shouldn’t be a sacrifice I have to make as a student,” stated Logan Armstrong, ‘26.

There could be a possible review of the wi-fi rule shortly if school policy calls for it.

“If the school policy allows cell phones, then we may consider allowing students on wi-fi. Personal computers will not be allowed,” said Mrs. Williamson.

It’s safe to say that the wi-fi issue has been the biggest talking point of the school year and there are no signs of discussion slowing down any time soon.