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Superintendent Column
2024-2025
A New Year, A Renewed Focus: Navigating Cell Phone Use in Our Schools
Dear Parents, Guardians, and Community Members,
As we launch another exciting school year, we are reminded of our shared mission: to create the best possible learning environment for our students. One topic that has recently taken center stage is cell phone use in schools. Whether we’re talking about phones or any other devices, our goal is clear: reduce distractions to foster a space where children can grow and thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
The Role of Cell Phones in Our Lives
We all recognize the indispensable role cell phones play in our daily lives. They connect us, provide information at our fingertips, and serve as a tool for both convenience and safety. However, we are also increasingly aware of the potential negative impacts: distractions, addictive behaviors, and exposure to inappropriate content. We understand that striking the right balance between “benefit versus risk” is no easy task.
Current Policy and Challenges
Our current policy prohibits the use of cell phones during instructional time to minimize distractions and keep students focused on their learning. However, enforcing a strict ban is much more challenging in practice than it seems. We want our teachers and administrators to focus on education and support rather than policing phone use throughout the day.
Additionally, the cost of devices intended to curb cell phone use presents another challenge. While these devices may reduce phone usage somewhat, they introduce additional financial and maintenance burdens on our schools. Research has shown that many of these devices are ineffective and a waste of money. This reality underscores the need for more practical, sustainable solutions.
Cell Phones as Tools
The dependency students have on their phones for their calendars, currency, and communication further complicates the issue. In an evacuation, leaving their phones behind could pose significant safety concerns. Phones are not just distractions; they are tools that many students rely on daily for organizing their lives and staying connected with their families.
A Collaborative Approach
The reality is that banning cell phones is not the only solution. We need to address this issue collaboratively, fostering a partnership between home and school. Parents and guardians play a crucial role in guiding their children to be responsible consumers of technology. They decide when a child is allowed to have a phone, set parameters for its use, and manage the apps and content on the device.
By working together, we can teach our students to use their devices thoughtfully and manage their screen time effectively.
It’s also important to note that many students are responsible users of technology and have figured out how to have a healthy relationship with their phones. When you ask them about cell phones, you get a broad range of answers on everything from parental controls to use in the classroom. Our students have grown up in a completely digital world, so we have to be mindful of their perceptions as we also guide them in developing their use habits.
We need to recognize that there are many things we would like to “ban”—poor attendance, incomplete homework, vaping, drug use, and other behaviors that are detrimental to our students' success. While these activities are technically prohibited, they still exist. A ban doesn't mean these issues magically disappear overnight. It takes consistent effort, education, and partnership to address these challenges effectively.
Collaborative Planning
This year, we are forming a dedicated group of educators, parents, and students to examine our current policies and practices surrounding cell phone use. This group will explore proactive steps and make recommendations for any necessary changes. We aim to ensure that our policies are not only practical but also promote the responsible use of technology.
Empowering Responsible Digital Citizens
Through this collaborative effort, we can find a balanced approach that respects the benefits of technology while mitigating its potential harms. Our ultimate goal is to empower our students to become responsible digital citizens who can navigate the complexities of the modern world with confidence and integrity.
We invite you to join us in this critical conversation as we move forward. Watch for the opportunity to provide feedback as the year continues. Together, we can continue to create a learning environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed. Let's work hand in hand to ensure that our schools are places of focus, growth, and positive development.
Thank you for your partnership,
Dr. Jane Stavem
Recommended Resource:
If you’re thinking about this topic of navigating the complexities of technology use among young people, parents are reading the book, The Anxious Generation, by Jonathan Haidt. This insightful book delves into the impact of technology on today's youth and provides valuable perspectives on how to help children develop healthy habits and resilience in an increasingly digital world. It is an excellent resource for parents seeking to understand and guide their children in the responsible use of technology.
Sioux Falls School District
Website: https://www.sf.k12.sd.us/page/superintendent-of-schools
Location: 201 East 38th Street, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
Phone: (605) 367-7900
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SiouxFallsSchoolDistrict?fref=ts
Twitter: @SFSchools