Petition: Support “Bell to Bell” Policy in all Trumbull Public Schools K-12

We, the undersigned parents, guardians & community members of Trumbull Public Schools, urge the Board of Education to adopt a “Bell to Bell” phone-free policy for all TPS schools, K-12. A truly phone-free school is one where students store phones securely and do not access them from the start to the end of the school day.

By signing this petition, you are advocating for a consistent, district-wide phone-free policy across elementary, middle, and high schools. This policy would align with growing research and best practices that prioritize the academic, emotional, and social well-being of our children.

Why Trumbull Needs an “Bell to Bell” Policy:

1. Reduces Bullying & Behavioral Issues
   Schools that have adopted phone-free policies report fewer incidents of bullying and disruptive behavior. Improves Focus and Engagement, without the constant distraction of phones, students are more engaged in both learning and face-to-face social interactions.
2. Supports Connection and Emotional Development
   Phones inhibit students' ability to form real-world relationships and develop empathy. Children need space and presence to build essential life skills.
3. Creates Calmer, Happier School Communities
   Educators and administrators consistently report that phone-free environments feel more positive and focused.
4. Ensures Safer, More Reliable Emergency Communication
   While some worry about phone access in emergencies, schools with these policies ensure robust, centralized communication systems—avoiding the chaos and unreliability of overloaded cellular networks.
   The Bottom Line
   Phones, smartwatches, and personal devices have created a culture of distraction, anxiety, and disconnection. Research shows that students thrive when these devices are removed during the school day, not only academically, but emotionally and socially.

We support the following changes to, Use of Private Technology by Students policy (5131.81) :

• Require phones to be off and out of sight from bell to bell for students in grades K–12, unless permitted by a teacher for educational purposes.
   Even high school students benefit from clear, consistent boundaries. Phones should be put away not just during instruction, but also during unstructured time like passing periods and lunch. This reduces temptation, supports social interaction, and promotes a culture of attention and presence.
• Add a formal review every two years to keep the policy current with rapidly changing technology.
   Technology evolves quickly. A scheduled review ensures the policy stays relevant and can adapt to new challenges and tools.
• Clearly define and communicate expectations and consequences to both students and families each year. Enforcement must be consistent, transparent, and fair across all classrooms. When rules are vague or unevenly enforced, confusion and resentment grow. Clarity promotes fairness and trust across the school community.
• Establish a reliable district-wide system for notifying families of last-minute schedule changes, so that phones are not the only mode of communication between students and parents—including bus delays, canceled practices, or other unexpected events.

Reducing screen time in school isn’t just about limiting distractions, it’s about giving our kids back their childhoods, their focus, and their ability to be fully 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