Eastern Iowa School District Goes Cell Phone Free

Nowadays, everyone has their cell phones attached to them at the hip.

We use them to stay connected, and informed, and as something to scroll on when we're using the bathroom.

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According to the National Institutes of Health, approximately 53% of children have a smartphone by eleven years old. Also, 95% of teens between the ages of 13 and 17 years have access to a cell phone.

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Due to these high numbers of adolescents with mobile phones, one school district in Eastern Iowa is making a move to put a stop to cell phones in the classroom.

Janesville CSD Goes Cell Phone Free

Officials from Janesville Consolidated School District announced last month that they are becoming a cell-phone-free school.

A statement was released on the district's website regarding the change.

"The decision to implement this policy is rooted in growing concerns about the impact of constant smartphone use on adolescents, supported by research and expert opinions," the statement read.

In addition, officials claimed that the new initiative would improved focus & academic performance, reduce anxiety & stress, lead to better social interactions, will promote a healthy "digital balance" for their students.

Janesville CSD Superintendent BJ Meaney stated, "“The goal is not to take students’ cell phones, but rather eliminate unnecessary distractions and problems cell phones can cause.”

How Will Janesville Execute This New Policy?

During the second quarter of the school year, each student will be assigned a YONDR bag.

At the beginning of the school day, the students will be asked to seal the devices in the bag. These pouches will be locked and the students will be able to keep their phones physically on them but will be unable to use them.

When the student wraps up their school day, then the teacher will unlock the pouch.

In case of an emergency, families/guardians will be able to email their specific students via their Janesville issued email address or just call the main office.

"We encourage parents, students, and staff to embrace this new policy as a step toward a brighter, less anxious future for our entire school community."

You can read the whole statement from Janesville Community School District officials here.

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