This year, Stanley-Boyd Schools are phone-free. I would like to take a moment to explain why we made this move and what it means for our students.
Phones have become a constant presence in many people’s daily lives. Although a powerful tool in our lives, inside school, phones have become a major challenge. Phones can pull students away from learning, reduce face-to-face interaction, and introduce unnecessary stress. Instead of being fully present, students find themselves watching notifications light up their screens.
The challenge isn’t unique to our school; it’s a national trend. A recent report shows that teenagers spend an average of 7 hours and 22 minutes per day on screens—that’s nearly half of their waking hours. Surveys reveal that roughly one in three teens (around 32%) say they feel “addicted” to their smartphones. This widespread reliance is real—and it can be powerful enough to constantly pull focus away from learning and relationships.
The consequences go deeper than distraction. Data from the CDC shows that teens who spend four or more hours per day on screens are significantly more likely to report symptoms of anxiety (27.1%) and depression (25.9%) compared to peers with less screen time. That’s a concern we can’t ignore.
Research shows us that classrooms free from phones foster better academic performance, deeper peer relationships, and healthier well-being. By removing phones during the school day, we are creating space for students to focus, connect, and develop the kind of critical thinking and social skills that will serve them long after graduation.
This isn’t a punishment, it’s an opportunity. Phones will still be available after school, but during the day, we want our students fully present. If parents need to reach their child, our offices are always ready to help.
Together—families, staff, and students—we can build a school culture where presence, connection, and learning take center stage.
Let’s embrace this opportunity and make it a fantastic year. Go Orioles!