POTTSTOWN, Pa. — A suburban Philadelphia middle school's ban on a popular type of fur-lined boots isn't about fashion, it's about cellphones.

1. Only on msnbc.com
   1. 

      AP
      Campaign still playing out on GOP turf
   2. Was Flame virus that invaded Iran's computer networks made in USA?
   3. 

      NBC News
      Suu Kyi receives ecstatic Thailand welcome
   4. Stray dog follows bikers over 1,100 miles
   5. Greek tragedy: Economic crisis sparks brain drain
   6. UK PM's ex-spin doctor held by cops in perjury case
   7. 1.3 million veterans lack health coverage

Pottstown Middle School parents were informed of a prohibition on the boots on Wednesday.

District community relations director John Armato told the Pottstown Mercury that students are using the boots to hide cellphones and bring them into class. Current school policy allows students to bring their phones to school but requires them to be kept in their locker during the day.

In effect next week
Armato says the ban targets the boots with fur or faux fur lining made by footwear companies including Ugg. It goes into effect Monday.

Principal Gail Cooper says students can still wear the boots to school, but must remove them before going to class.