Spartan Families,
As we approach the midpoint of the first quarter on Friday, I am reaching out to share and emphasize some important information about cell phones in classrooms at OLCHS. Students are adjusting well to the new school year and our expectations for engaging in learning, so please read on for more information on why this topic is so important.
As you have likely heard, cell phone usage in schools has become a major concern for schools across the country. Research continues to highlight the mental health and academic problems connected to a dependence on smartphones and the distraction they create. A simple Google search returns hundreds of news articles and research studies showing that cell phone usage during class time disrupts learning, reduces classroom social interactions, and is a barrier to student focus that ultimately results in missed instruction. At OLCHS, teachers, counselors, and students themselves have all recognized this and reported to me on the negative impact of student cell phone usage during class time.
As you know from prior parent messages and presentations, we began our school year by emphasizing with students that cell phones should not be used in the classroom. According to our Student Handbook (p. 42), cell phones can be used in the student cafeteria before/after school and during lunches as well as in common areas such as hallways during passing periods.
To better help students focus during class time, teachers may require students to stow their cell phone in a secure pouch that blocks connectivity/notifications. In classrooms or areas where the pouches are not required, students will be expected to keep their cell phone silent and out of sight. Students using phones or other devices in violation of this policy may be issued a teacher consequence or an after-school detention. If warranted, a dean may also assign a Saturday detention and/or a Behavior Intervention Room assignment.
Although this is not a full cell phone ban, we do need to work together to limit access to phones and headphones/earbuds during instructional time so that students can learn. As we continue to find ways to help students make good choices and engage in their learning, we invite our families to partner with us on reducing the distraction of cell phones in the classroom:
- Discuss your expectations for classroom behavior with your student. Encourage them to be fully engaged in the learning activities in each of their classes. This includes removing headphones before entering a classroom.
- Avoid texting or calling your student during class time. In case of emergency, contact the Main Office at 708-424-5200. If a student needs to contact their parents/guardians during class time, they should let their teacher know. The teacher will assist them.
- Reinforce our shared expectation that if a student becomes ill, they will ask for a pass to the Health Office. Trained staff can assess the student and contact you as needed.
Although it is still early in the school year, the vast majority of students have been doing their part by complying with our cell phone procedures. Teachers have noted an improved learning environment with fewer distractions. I thank you for your continued partnership in focusing on student well-being and learning as our core classroom priorities.
On behalf of our entire #olchspride staff,
Dr. Lauren May, Principal