Dear Parents/Guardians,
I am writing to inform you about an important initiative we are implementing at Farmington High School to enhance the learning environment and promote focus and engagement among our students. Starting Tuesday, January 7, 2025, we will be requiring all students to keep their cell phones put away during instructional time as part of the Governor’s Cell Phone Free Pilot.
This initiative is part of our ongoing efforts to minimize distractions and foster a conducive learning environment that increases student engagement at FHS. Research shows that cell phones in the classroom are detrimental to student performance. Schools that have created phone-free learning environments have reported significant benefits, including:
65% improvement in academic performance.
74% improvement in student behavior.
83% improvement in student engagement in the classroom (Yondr Pouch Company).
At Farmington High School, students will still maintain possession of their phones but must keep them stored in their backpacks or bags during instructional time. Phones may only be used outside of instructional periods, such as during lunch or passing periods, and should not disrupt the learning environment.
By requiring phones to be put away during class, we aim to create a more focused and productive learning environment where students can fully immerse themselves in their education without the temptation of distractions. This policy will benefit students academically, promote healthier screen-time habits, and foster stronger interpersonal connections within our school community.
We encourage you to discuss the importance of minimizing phone use during instructional time with your child and emphasize the benefits of staying focused and engaged in their education. If you need to contact your student during the school day, please call the FHS main office for assistance.
Thank you for your support in helping us create a positive and distraction-free learning environment for all FHS students.
Sincerely,
Jon Purifoy
Principal
Farmington High School