CCA Bulletin 10.5.25

Dear Parents,

This year, CCA has implemented a no-cellphone policy for all grades. This was done to eliminate the distraction element from our time together. It has also stopped sneaky middle school texting during breaks. While instant communication and information undoubtedly have their advantages, their downsides have become increasingly apparent.

As an educator with four decades of experience in the field, I have observed distinct changes in how students learn. While research has become easier for students with instant access, nuances in how we learn have developed.

Over the last 10 years, I have observed a decline in students’ focused attention when technology is not present. What once captured our students’ attention no longer has an impact. With that comes less patience for learning. If solutions don’t present themselves quickly, students disengage from the problem-solving process. Perseverance and self-motivation are at an all-time low. These factors change when technology is present. Thus, a balanced approach to learning with technology can actually enhance learning in a classroom.

The opposite is true in terms of cellphone use. Studies show that there is a greater distraction factor when cellphones are present, even if they are turned off and put away. (Harvard Business Review, 2018).

Additionally, I spent time observing our high school students at lunchtime over the last couple of years. While some ate together and talked while they were eating, a growing number of students were gathered around phones, laughing at social media content, texting people on and off campus, or sitting isolated with a phone in their hand. While some students still prefer to be alone at lunch, now more spend an extended time talking together. 

I know this decision has not been well-received by some of our students, but we are embracing the change.

Here is one final thought regarding middle schoolers and texting, particularly in group chats. Instead of having your student text with their own phone, have them text on yours. That way, everyone knows the texts will be monitored. You might find that it significantly reduces unwanted content!

In Christ,

Sherrie Gibelyou

sherrie.gibelyou@ccatacoma.org

253-389-034