How many times a day do students utter the phrase “Can we listen to music?”

The answer: a lot.

For some teachers, allowing students to listen to music is no big deal – for others, it’s never going to happen.

Students such as 8th grader Melissa Puente think that students should be allowed to listen to music during class.

“I think we should be able to listen to music during classes because it helps some of us, like me, for example, concentrate better,” Puente said.

Some staff members think the rules should be changed when it comes to music in class.

“I do think students should be allowed to listen to music at school because it does help them focus and stay on task,” Intervention Counselor Alzada Benton said.

Music is very comforting, but it also can be distracting. It can affect students and those around them.

Introduction to Spanish teacher Kendalyn Smith uses music as a cultural tool.

“I let my students listen to music, but only if it’s in Spanish. It’s a great opportunity to learn about the language and exposes the culture,” Smith said.

English teacher Christopher Walker uses music as a reward.

“I use music as a privilege; they can listen to their music when they follow my instructions” Walker said.

For some teachers, their classroom is a music-free zone.

“I don’t let any of my students listen to music because it’s very distracting,” theatre teacher Katrina Keener said. “And I have no clue what it is that they are listening to.”