COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – A new policy implemented at Coldwater High School that prohibits students from using personal communication devices during school hours, including lunch and passing periods, is yielding positive results.
The Coldwater Community Schools Board of Education adopted the the measure back in August to reduce classroom disruptions and increase student engagement, and after nearly four months, early reports indicate progress on both fronts.
The policy requires students to keep their phones in their lockers throughout the school day.
Teachers and administrators say they have seen measurable improvements in the classroom environment by removing the constant distraction of notifications and social media, students are reportedly more focused on instruction and face-to-face interactions with peers.
Assistant Principal Bryan Shirk says that the ban is reducing fights and defiance, and improving the overall school climate and student behavior. This aligns with national studies, which indicate that banning cell phones can improve students’ engagement with one another and decrease classroom distractions.
On the first offense the phone is confiscated and must be picked up by the student at the end of the day.
Second offense a parent or guardian must pick up the confiscated device at the end of the day.
If there is a third offense the student is placed on a “cell phone plan” requiring them to turn their phone in consecutively for five days.
Parents can still contact their children in an emergency by calling the main office, a system that successfully managed communication needs for generations prior to widespread cell phone use.
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