In a recent University Place School District meeting, a growing consensus emerged among parents and community members advocating for a \"bell to bell\" phone-free policy in schools. The discussions highlighted the detrimental effects of smartphone usage on students' social skills, mental health, and academic performance.

Several speakers, including parents and mental health professionals, expressed concerns about the isolation and anxiety that excessive phone use can foster among students. One parent, Peter Grossenbach, shared alarming anecdotes about unregulated smartphone access leading to exposure to inappropriate content among young children. He emphasized the school district's responsibility to protect students during school hours, advocating for a complete ban on phones to mitigate risks associated with cyberbullying and inappropriate online behavior.

Katherine McNaughton, a marriage and family therapist, noted a significant rise in anxiety and depression among teenagers, attributing much of this increase to social isolation exacerbated by smartphone dependency. She argued that while technology can provide a sense of connection, it lacks the empathy and support that face-to-face interactions offer.

The meeting also saw support for the proposed policy from Veronique White, who underscored the need for a focused learning environment free from distractions. She commended the district's recent efforts to tighten cell phone regulations but insisted that a more comprehensive approach is necessary to foster healthy social interactions and improve academic outcomes.

The call for a bell to bell phone-free policy reflects a broader concern about the impact of technology on youth development, with advocates urging the school board to take decisive action to create a healthier educational environment.