Dear CCV Parents and Guardians,
I am writing to inform you about an important change that will be taking place at our school after J-Term. After careful consideration and research, we will be implementing a ban on cellphones and personal electronic devices during classroom hours, effective January 21, 2025, the start of Second Semester.
Our primary goal as educators is to create an environment where students can focus on their studies, engage meaningfully with their peers and teachers, and develop skills that will help them thrive both academically and socially. Research continues to show that the presence of cellphones in the classroom is a distraction to these objectives. Our experience in CCV classrooms has supported this research. While cellphones are valuable communication tools, we have observed several issues that have arisen as a result of their use during the school day:
- Distraction from Learning: Many students are distracted by text messages, social media, and games during class. This disruption interferes with their ability to concentrate and engage with the lesson at hand.
- Social Media and Mental Health: Studies continue to show that excessive use of social media can contribute to increased anxiety, stress, and a decrease in self-esteem, especially during the school day when students are trying to focus on academics.
- Academic Integrity: The ease with which students can access answers or share information via cellphones has raised concerns about academic honesty. By limiting cellphone use, we aim to encourage independent learning and critical thinking.
- Safety and Social Interaction: One of our core priorities is to foster meaningful social interactions and create a safe space for students to engage with one another face-to-face. Cellphones can sometimes act as a barrier to these important social connections.
We recognize that there are times when cellphones serve a legitimate purpose, such as for communication between students and parents before or after school, or in cases of emergency. With this in mind, we will allow students to keep their phones in their lockers or bags during classes, and they may access them during lunch or after school as needed.
Students have been learning about our reasoning for this decision through the Advisory classes in the weeks before Winter Break. HS Student Council, as well, offered input on the change in policy. A majority of students polled agreed that cellphones are a detriment in classrooms. In tandem with you, we will continue to provide guidance on the responsible use of technology. We are committed to ensuring that this policy benefits the overall well-being of our students and the academic integrity of our school community.
Here are several sources for information on this topic:
ā 72% of U.S. high school teachers say cellphone distraction is a major problem in the classroom (Pew Research Center)
ā Why I Support Banning Cellphones in Classrooms
ā Banning Cellphones in Classrooms (Rice Business School)
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Thank you for your continued support.
Dan Cummings
Secondary Principal
CCV Secondary