text: What I suggest that you could change with this policy is instead of having to make them turn their phones of in class allow them to keep it on and don't force the subject of no texting in class because that's what students like to hear. Switch from being forceful and mean to gentle and kind. Let them know that they can have their cell phones on during class and that you just want them to make the right decision to not text in class. Now I know not everyone will go cold turkey and not text in class, but the majority of the students will. What will go through there minds is the fact that you have trusted them enough to allow them to use their phones during free time and they will appreciate you for that.