Fenton Area Schools Launches New Cell Phone Policy

In the blink of an eye, the summer is winding down and a new school year is about to start. As parents and teachers ready for the year many districts are implementing new procedures and policies to ensure a safe and healthy year.

As schools nationwide look for ways to enhance the educational experience, Fenton Area Schools is joining in with a new cell phone policy for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year. The new initiative aims to minimize distractions and maximize learning within the district.

Fenton Area Schools released a letter this week to parents in the district outlining the new cell phone policy. The letter notes that the Board of Education adopted the new policy after they received feedback from the teaching staff, researched the use of cell phones in education with resources from the GISD, and included research information.

"Our primary goal is to foster a learning environment that is focused, engaging, and promotes the academic and social-emotional well-being of all students. Recent research has increasingly highlighted the negative impact of cell phone use during class time. Studies show that cell phones can be a significant distraction, hindering students' ability to concentrate and retain information.  Additionally, research suggests a connection between constant cell phone notifications and increased anxiety in young people. We believe it's crucial to create a space where students can be present in the moment, free from the anxieties associated with social media and digital distractions", the letter states. 

What is the New Cell Phone Policy at Fenton Area Schools?

Starting on the first day of school in the Fenton district, cell phones will be required to be turned off and stored away in lockers or backpacks during all class periods. They will allow (6-12) students will have designated times to access their phones during lunchtime, before and after school. You can read the full letter here. 

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Fenton isn't the first district in the area to issue a cell phone policy for their schools. In January, Flint Community Schools implemented a cell phone and hoodie policy throughout their district. Their ban not only includes inside school buildings, but on buses as well.

As widespread the policy seems to be not just across Michigan, but the entire country, it may become more the norm at our schools sooner than later.