When I was in school (well, technically, I still am, but I'm no longer in public school), chewing gum was not allowed, at any time. Even if we were caught making chewing motions with our jaws, we were sent to the principal's office. Now that my little niece is starting kindergarten, one of the things on her school supply list is of all things...chewing gum! My mom says NOW, kids are actually ENCOURAGED to chew gum, because they say it keeps them focused. They told us when I was in public school that chewing gum is a nasty habit, and distracts the other students. Isn't that bizarre and kinda unfair?