We are writing to express our full support for McMurray Middle School’s recent implementation of the “Away for the Day” policy, which requires all students to store their cell phones and smartwatches during school hours.
This decision is a crucial step in prioritizing our children’s social, emotional, and educational well-being, and it aligns with a growing wave of similar actions being taken by education leaders across the country.
Many education policymakers and school leaders now recognize the detrimental effects of unrestricted cellphone use in schools. According to a recent analysis by Education Week, at least 11 states have passed laws or enacted policies that ban or restrict students’ use of cell phones in schools.
Even the largest school districts in the country, including Los Angeles and New York, are implementing policies to significantly limit students’ access to their devices during school hours. Following suit, two middle schools in Seattle will also implement similar restrictions in the upcoming school year.
The reasoning behind these policies is clear: limiting access to cell phones during the school day dramatically benefits students’ mental health and learning. The constant stream of notifications and updates can create a sense of urgency and fear of missing out, leading to increased anxiety and stress. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Pediatrics found that adolescents who spent more than three hours per day on electronic devices were at a higher risk of experiencing mental health issues, including anxiety and depression.
Moreover, the neurological impact of constant device usage is significant. The brain releases dopamine — a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward — every time a notification comes in, potentially leading to screen addiction. This addiction can distract students from their academic responsibilities and diminish their ability to focus on tasks that require sustained attention. A study in Psychological Science highlighted that the mere presence of a cell phone, even when not in use, can reduce cognitive capacity, as part of the brain is actively working to ignore the device. This undermines students’ ability to fully engage with the educational material being presented.
Excessive smartphone use has also been linked to sleep disturbances, which are crucial for maintaining good mental health and cognitive function. Research published in the journal Sleep Medicine Reviews indicates that the blue light emitted by screens can interfere with the production of melatonin, a hormone responsible for regulating sleep. Poor sleep hygiene, often exacerbated by late-night smartphone use, has been associated with lower academic performance and increased rates of absenteeism.
By implementing the “Away for the Day” policy, McMurray Middle School is proactively safeguarding our students from these risks. It is not just about removing distractions but about fostering an environment where students can fully engage with their education and develop healthy, face-to-face social interactions without the constant pull of digital devices.
The American Academy of Pediatrics has long advocated for limiting screen time, particularly in educational settings, as excessive use has been shown to impede social development. Children who interact less frequently in person may struggle with developing essential communication skills, which are crucial for success both in and out of the classroom.
In addition to these social and emotional benefits, the academic advantages of a phone-free environment are substantial. A study conducted by the London School of Economics examined the test scores of students before and after cell phone bans in schools across four cities. The researchers found that students in phone-free environments performed significantly better, particularly those who were typically underachievers. The policy essentially leveled the playing field, allowing students from all backgrounds to benefit from a focused, distraction-free learning environment.
As parents and community members, we must stand in solidarity with Principal Greg Allison and the educators at McMurray Middle School as they work to create a safer and more conducive learning environment for our children. The “Away for the Day” policy is a forward-thinking measure that puts the well-being of our students first.
By supporting this initiative, we are ensuring that our children can develop the skills and habits necessary for success in a rapidly changing world.
We commend McMurray Middle School for taking this bold step. The evidence is clear: reducing cell phone usage in schools benefits students’ mental health, academic performance, and social development. Let us work together to prioritize these outcomes for our children.
Leigh Anne McKeen is the president of the Vashon Parent Teacher Organization (PTO). Jenny Granum is the president of the Vashon Education Association (VEA).
