Cons Of Chewing Gum In School

Students at Sherwood Middle School have always been lectured for breaking rules, whether it’s the dress code, having their phone out, or talking in class. But one rule has come under fire recently: no chewing gum in the classroom. Before, teachers weren’t so strict about enforcing this rule, but this school year has been very different from the last. Some students feel that it affects them more than ever and aren’t too happy. Many attendees of SMS have stated their opinions on the regulation, and opinions differ greatly. This directive affects many people- students, teachers, counselors, and other faculty. Therefore, everyone has an opinion. Some argue that students can be distracted by their peers smacking on gum. Others believe the pros of gum far outweigh the cons because chewing it while trying to focus can greatly help a student
“Chewing gum during school helps me think better,” says an 8th grade student, McKenna Lowry. She goes on to explain, “I have a hard time concentrating and gum helps me focus.” Many agree with McKenna, but some have a different opinion. “I really hate when there’s gum stuck under a desk or on the chairs, so I support the gum-ban,” says another student (Robison). It’s clear that the school is divided between supporters and non-supporters of the gum embargo. The directive has been in place for years. As stated above, there are many different arguments for and against chewing gum during class. Some say that if gum were allowed, it could “teach responsibility” and show students that there are consequences to their choices to stick ABC gum under a desk or chair (Robison). Others, like Mr. Bowman, a language arts and social studies teacher at Sherwood Middle, think that “it can be a distraction to other students and even the teacher”. Bowman is obviously in agreement with the boycott of