Bulldogs Newsletter October 2, 2023
Hello Basswood families,
In recent years there has been a lot of research done on the impact of cell phones on childhood and in schools. Jonathan Haidt is a respected authority on this subject and I highly recommend his book titled The Anxious Generation. Haidt and others have worked for years to inform and influence changes to support a healthier childhood and adolescence for school-aged students. The Minnesota Legislature established Statute 121A.73 to guide guide schools in this area during the 2024 session. Recently the Osseo School Board created the Student Cell Phone and Technology Policy to align with State Statute. I believe these changes will have a very positive impact on this generation of learners.
These changes in policy will affect our procedures at Basswood related to cell phone and electronics. The key changes are as follows:
- Students are discouraged from bringing phones and electronic devices to school.
- Devices (phones, smart watches, ear buds) must be put away in backpacks from bell to bell.
- Students that bring devices assume risk for loss or theft.
- Devices will be allowed with Section 504 Accommodations or an IEP if needed.
- School office phones to be used for students to call home.
- Parents may call the school office to get information to their children.
In the coming weeks, we will be teaching these expectations to our students. Including the school response for students that do not follow the new expectations. In next week's Basswood Bulletin, I will share details on the school's response to technology challenges. Until then, please understand that we will inform families of any issues that arise with the new procedures.
In partnership,
Steven Schwartz
Basswood Principal