At the start of the school year, school administrators introduced a new personal cellular device policy that prioritizes face-to-face connections, deeper learning and meaningful student interactions.
With a commitment to create the best possible learning environment for children, this initiative will transform the culture at the schools and significantly increase student engagement and focus.
Simply stated, all personal cellular devices — including cellphones, smartwatches, headphones/earbuds, iPads and tablets — must be turned off and stored in backpacks during school hours, including passing periods and lunch.
The biggest shift in policy came at the high school, where cellphone use in classrooms was previously at the discretion of the teacher.
However, this significant change has been remarkedly successful so far.
Teachers report notable differences in classrooms. Students are more present, focused and engaged both in their learning and with each other.
A teacher shared, “For the first time in my career, every student turned in their first paper on time. Typically, one-quarter to one-third of students turn in their papers late. I attribute this directly to them working more efficiently in class without phones.”
Students have reported a variety of feelings: “Social interaction has gone up,” “Definitely helping people be more social,” “Made communication with parents and my boss about work schedule more difficult,” “I like it; it has helped me concentrate more on my school work and I get less distracted,” “Hard because parents are working and can’t answer a phone call” and “Socialization has gone up.”
Students are at school about 36 hours each week. What happens outside of school hours is equally important, and families play a vital role in helping children build healthy digital habits. The school district provides information and resources to support families in managing screen time and helping kids build healthy habits with technology and devices.
School staff was inspired after reading “The Anxious Generation” by Jonathan Haidt, which explores the challenges facing today’s youth and offers hope and practical steps for reducing trends of anxiety and depression while reclaiming real-world connection and helping kids thrive offline by restoring a more balanced childhood experience.
According to Common Sense Media, 88 percent of teens (13-18) and 43 percent of kids (8-12) in the U.S. now have smartphones. The research is clear that the rapid rise of technology and social media has profoundly changed how young brains develop, making it harder for students to focus, engage deeply in learning and manage their own well-being.
Anyone working with kids sees this daily. This policy is designed to remove distractions, keep students fully present in the classroom, and the school district believes it’s critical for improving educational outcomes.
Pagosa Springs High School Assistant Principal Chantelle Jordan commented, “In the hallways and at lunch, students are talking and connecting in ways we haven’t seen in years.”
If you want to learn more, each school’s webpage has more information: www.mypagosaschools.com.
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