Dear Parents/Guardians,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to inform you of an important change to our school’s policy regarding mobile phones. Effective from Monday, 6th January 2025, students will no longer be permitted to use mobile phones during the school day.
This decision has been made with the well-being, mental health, and academic success of our students in mind. Research, including insights from Jonathan Haidt’s influential book The Anxious Generation, highlights the growing concern around the impact of constant mobile phone use on young people’s mental health, attention spans, and overall development. As a school, we have a responsibility to provide a learning environment that supports focus, social interaction, and emotional well-being.
From 6th January 2025, students will be required to keep their mobile phones switched off and stored securely in their lockers during school hours.
Key Points of the Policy:
Phones must be kept in lockers from 9:00 AM until the end of the last class.
Students caught with a phone during school hours will have it confiscated for a week. Parents will be required to come to the school to collect the phone.
Students without lockers are not allowed to bring phones to school.
Students who wish to obtain a locker may apply for one at a cost of €5.
Should a student need to contact home in an emergency, they may do so via the school office. Similarly, parents can contact the school office if they need to reach their child during the day.
We understand that this change may require adjustment for some students and families. However, we firmly believe that this measure will have a positive impact on our students’ ability to engage fully with their learning and each other. We kindly ask for your support and cooperation as we implement this policy. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to the school.
Thank you for your understanding and continued support in fostering a positive learning environment for our students.
Yours sincerely,
John McGuinness
Principal 17/12/2024
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