Finding Connection: The Surprising Impact of Going Phone-Free

When we implemented our device-free policy this fall, the changes were straightforward: phones stay in lockers, social media is blocked on school Wi-Fi and gaming isn't permitted during school hours. Though we were uncertain about enforcement challenges, we believed it was the right direction for our students.

You may wonder how it’s going. We’re happy to report the results have exceeded our expectations.

Today, our halls resound with more laughter and conversation. The learning stairs, once lined with students silently absorbed in phones or gaming on laptops, are now the site of animated discussions and genuine connections. We even observe the occasional student taking a moment for quiet reflection – something rarely seen before. While these observations may be anecdotal, the positive changes are unmistakable.

Differences aren’t only seen in the halls. Teachers report a noticeable change in their classrooms: many students appear calmer, happier and maintain focus for longer periods. The transformation extends beyond academics – our open gym during lunch hour has seen remarkable growth in participation. Students who previously sat isolated with their phones now engage in pickup basketball and volleyball games. Even our library has evolved, maintaining its role as a space for collaborative learning while fostering a more tranquil but still vibrant atmosphere.

The research that guided the device-free policy is compelling: studies show that merely having phones present reduces students’ cognitive capacity, and multitasking prompted by a device significantly impacts academic performance. Our aim isn't to vilify technology – we love technology and innovation. Our aim is to encourage its purposeful use while prioritizing student wellbeing and academic excellence.

The initial success we’re seeing reinforces what we suspected: supporting our students' emotional and physical health strengthens both their learning, their friendships and their overall wellbeing. While we continue to explore additional ways to help our students thrive, these early positive changes are encouraging.

We invite parents to join us on January 9 for an evening with Paul Davis on Online Safety for Adolescents. After all, true excellence extends beyond academics – it's about nurturing well-rounded, emotionally healthy young people who are ready to engage with the world, one phone-free conversation at a time.