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Dear Barrington 220 Community,
The start of the new school year is just a few days away and we are excited to welcome our students back to school.
As outlined in our district’s strategic plan, Framework 220, one area we are focusing on this year is social media awareness and digital devices. Our goal is to identify and implement a district-wide process to address the use of social media in a healthy, safe manner, and include opportunities for students, staff, and parents to gain a deep understanding of how social media sites and apps can affect multiple aspects of student life both in and out of the school environment.
While we study this important topic and consider possible adjustments to current guidelines, we’d like to communicate our existing expectations to minimize distractions and enhance face-to-face classroom connections:
Digital Mobile Devices are not permitted in learning environments. Devices must remain powered down and out of sight during class time.
Recent research and feedback from our staff reaffirm that personal mobile devices, while beneficial in some contexts, often serve as distractions during instructional time. In Barrington 220 we provide each student with an Apple iPad, ensuring they have the necessary technology for educational purposes without needing personal mobile devices in the classroom. Our goal is to help students develop responsible digital habits that will benefit them academically and personally.
Our top priorities are to minimize distractions in the classroom and help students learn to self-regulate their use of digital devices. Clear guidelines and consistent enforcement will support students in developing responsible digital habits.
As parents and guardians, your support is crucial. Please encourage your children to follow these guidelines and talk about the importance of being present and engaged in their learning experiences. By working together, we can ensure that Barrington 220 remains a place for focused learning and meaningful connections. Thank you for your continued support and partnership in creating a positive educational environment for our students.
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