We, the undersigned parents and guardians of Fairfield Public Schools, encourage the Board of Education to adopt an “Away for the Day” phone-free policy for all Fairfield Public Schools. A true phone-free school is one where phones are out of sight and out of possession from the start to the end of the school day. 

By signing this petition, you are advocating for an implementation of phone-free school days at all levels (elementary, middle, and high schools). We believe that an “Away for the Day” phone-free policy will enhance educational and social-emotional outcomes for all FPS students and aligns with current research and best-practices.

Reasons for an Away for the Day, Phone-Free Schools Policy:

1. Less Bullying: Schools with effective phone-free policies report less bullying and fewer behavior incidents
2. Improve focus and engagement: limiting cell phone use increases student engagement in academic and social activities. Schools with effective phone-free policies report more interactive and engaged classrooms. 
3. More connection: kids need connection and the spaces to develop social skills, empathy, and relationships. Phones are an experience blocker and prohibit kids from real world interactions and experiences needed to fully develop. 
4. Happier school communities- schools with phone free policies report being happier and calmer.
5. Focus on Safety- While parents worry about the need for cell phones during emergencies, districts with phone-free policies ensure that students have access to emergency communication through school channels, reducing the risk of system overload during crisis. 

Phones have lead to an alarming trend of distractions and impact the academic and social development of students. Research shows that kids and teens do better with phones, smartwatches and other personal devices away during school hours. 

Reducing screen time during school hours isn't just about decreasing academic distractions, but about reclaiming the richness of face-to-face interactions, experiential learning, and teaching children the value of being present.

References:

1. Haidt, J. (2024). The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness. Penguin Press.
2. Away for the Day. Retrieved February 13 from https://www.awayfortheday.org