Changes and New Beginnings for a New Year
The 2024-2025 school year is fast approaching, and we're excited to welcome our students back to the building. This year brings several exciting developments:
Elementary Renovations: The new kitchen and lunchroom area , providing a fresh and functional space for our younger students.
High School Greenhouse: Construction of a high-tech greenhouse will begin in September, enhancing our hands-on learning opportunities.
Our commitment to innovative education continues to grow, but with these advancements come necessary changes. One significant change is the implementation of a no-cellphone policy. Starting this school year, students in grades K-12 will not be allowed to have their cellphones during the school day. If they bring their phones, they must turn them in to their teacher and will receive them back at the end of the day. Parents needing to contact their child can call the office, and messages will be forwarded, or in emergencies, the student will be immediately notified and connected with the parent. For simple reminders, parents can always email their child.
Why This Policy?
While there have been high hopes for using cellphones as learning tools, the reality is that they have become a major distraction. Students often use their phones during class time, in the hallways, at lunch, and even in the bathroom. This constant distraction has turned teachers into cellphone police, disrupting the learning environment.
According to the Education Parliamentary Monitor (January 2024), there is increasing evidence of the unnecessary distractions caused by mobile phones in schools. Ofcom’s report found "by the age of 12, 97% of children own a mobile phone. The National Behaviour Survey (2021-2022) found that 29% of secondary school pupils reported mobile phones being used without permission in most of their lessons". At the age of 12, our students are learning prerequisites to algebra, drawing inferences from their reading, and applying higher-order thinking skills in science. Cellphones in the classroom hinder this intellectual growth.
A study by Bi, Kou, Xie, and Dong (2022) examines cellphone addiction and its relationship to loneliness and social anxiety. The research indicates, "Mobile phone addiction may be associated with social anxiety when an individual spends less time and energy on desired interpersonal social interactions, diminishing their sense of belongingness" (pg. 487). This can lead to social anxiety and hinder the development of strong social relationships. In our lunchroom, instead of socializing, students are often glued to their phones, missing out on important face-to-face interactions.
Bullying Concerns
Bullying is another significant issue linked to cellphone use. As reported by Weerakkody (2008), "bullies use text messages and mobile phone photos and videos that can be uploaded to social networks anonymously, making bullying a 24/7 possibility" (pg. 464). "Cyberbullying can cause severe trauma, anxiety, depression, truancy, self-harm, eating disorders, and even suicide. The humiliation can reach a wider audience and persist longer than face-to-face bullying" (pg. 464).
While we understand the importance of cellphones for afterschool jobs, rides, or reminders, the negative effects of phones in school outweigh these benefits. Our duty is to educate your children and set them up for future success. Therefore, we are eliminating cellphone distractions during the school day. This policy may be controversial, but it aligns with our mission and vision outlined in our district strategic plan.
Our Mission
Lake Park Audubon School District inspires, challenges, and supports all learners in their growth and success in life.
Our Vision
LPA aspires to educate learners in a positive, supportive, and innovative environment, equipping them with the tools and knowledge to succeed in their futures. Our vision is to create productive citizens who will go out into the world and their communities to effect positive change.
We appreciate your support and understanding as we implement this new policy for the betterment of our students' education and well-being.