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Student reps: ‘Phones away’ policy improving focus and social interaction, students say
Summary
Student representatives told the Canton Local board that the new 'phones away all day' policy has increased student focus and in-school social interaction; student leaders also highlighted mentoring programs, scholarship opportunities, and strong CTE application rates.
Student representatives told the Canton Local Board of Education on Jan. 12 that the district’s new “phones away all day” policy is producing noticeable changes in the classroom and school climate.
“Students are getting more social interaction because they're not sitting there on their phones during classes, during study halls, during lunches,” said Brendon Wakefield, a student representative, describing observations from multiple district buildings and teacher feedback about smoother classroom dynamics.
Student reps also reported on a screen-free winter-break challenge tied to a raffle, mentoring breakfasts that supported freshmen, and a special persons day at the elementary school that strengthened family connections. They noted strong CTE recruiting: at one high school, 84% of 10th graders had applied for a CTE program and other students from partner districts showed a 70% application rate for programs such as medical academy, cosmetology and HVAC.
The board also recognized student achievements, including solos and ensembles that earned superior ratings and announced scholarship packets with multiple awards for graduates pursuing college, trades or certification programs.
The students’ remarks were wholly in the presentation portion of the agenda; board members thanked the students and invited staff to follow up with formal data on the phone policy at a later meeting when Mr. Harms presents impact metrics in February.
