I would like to know if anyone has had an issue of student phone access at their school. Our middle school has no outside phone and kids who are waiting for parents after the building is locked (4:15pm) have no way to call home. Ideally, they call before leaving the building but if no one answers or the line is busy, the end up not getting a second chance. Our PTO is concerned and wants to make a suggestion to the school administration.

We have a pay phone in each of our three middle schools. Last class excused at 2:48 doors locked at 4:00. Forutnately all are located in the city and with a walk the kids could reach a pay phone eventually.
Is it after school events that keep them in the building so long? How many families does this seem to effect? Is there any other place near the school to walk to?
I could see the phone company not putting in a phone booth if it will not receive much use and of course you would need to see how the school board would feel about a phone booth on their property but I guess I would start with those two contacts for answers.