Reflections from our Executive Director, Megan Pacheco
Student cell phone policies are creating a big buzz as this school year begins: but is your policy set up for success?
As the school year gets underway, many states and districts are introducing 'no cell phone' policies to minimize distractions, enhance student focus, and help them build relationships with teachers and peers. We applaud schools for considering the impact of phones on the student experience, and see this as a prime opportunity to invite students to participate in co-designing these solutions for greater effectiveness and equity.
When we include students in designing solutions and spend time understanding their diverse experiences and perspectives, we create policies that are more likely to be successful and sustained. Leveraging the assets and ideas of the broader community, including teachers and families, is essential for successful school change. Schools can also harness this opportunity to educate families about the impacts of phone use and foster a community response.
This is a prime opportunity to address deeper issues, such as how schools promote connection, ensure meaningful student engagement, and prioritize overall well-being. As we build these policies, let’s think about what’s behind them, such as:
How are we centering connection and belonging in schools?
Are students engaged in meaningful work or simply just ‘doing school’?
What other ways are we prioritizing student well-being?
While there may be a diversity of different cell phone policies across the country, we encourage all schools to leverage this moment to practice bringing students into conversations that have traditionally been led only by adults.
Need help facilitating a productive conversation with students? We’ve got your back! Reach out today to learn about the many ways we can support you this school year.
