Monday Minute - August 18, 2025

Posted Date: 08/18/25 (04:12 PM)

Monday Minute

Back to School Updates & Notices

August 18, 2025

Cell Phone Policy

Students are not permitted to use or carry cell phones during the school hours of 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM. Any cell phones that are brought to school should be secured in the lockbox in the student’s TA or the Main Office.

When can I use my cell phone?

On the bus at the driver’s discretion
Cell phones are not allowed to be out on the Newport Town Bus
After school sports at the coach’s discretion

Where are cell phones not allowed?

Bathroom
Drawstring/messenger bag
Hallway
Pocket

Where can I put my phone at school?

In the lockbox in my TA or the Front Office (powered off/on silent)

Off and Away - it's not easy, but it's worth it.

What if I need to get in contact with my family?

Students who need to get in contact with their family may ask their teacher for a pass to the front office to use the school telephone.

What happens if I do not follow the rules for the use of electronic devices at school?

First offense: The student turns the device in to administration; parents are notified, and the device is to be picked up by the student at the end of the day. Students refusing will be referred to administration.
Second offense: As above with the addition that the parent/guardian will need to pick up the device.
Third offense: The student will lose the privilege to carry personal devices in school except as defined in an individual plan created between administration, parents, and student.

Why do we have these rules?

IMPROVE FOCUS: Studies show that simply having a device on your desk during class causes a significant distraction, enough to reduce concentration, memory, and mental performance.
DECREASE STRESS: Time management improves when hours aren't lost to social media or streaming. Students who spend less time on devices feel more productive and less anxious about managing daily tasks and responsibilities.
BETTER FRIENDSHIPS: Teens agree that cell phones distract them from the people they're hanging out with. Less social media at school means stronger relationships and increased respect among peers.
COMBAT FOMO: Connecting constantly through devices creates FOMO (fear of missing out), a condition where teens feel the compulsive need to know what others are doing all the time. Negative impacts of FOMO include feelings of stress, inadequacy, jealousy, and loneliness.
BRING GRADES UP: Student test scores and overall engagement in school go up when cell phones are left out of the classroom. Better grades means higher confidence and self-esteem.
HEALTHIER SLEEP: The backlight on electronics can delay the release of melatonin, an important hormone needed for sleep. Eliminating nighttime scrolling can protect valuable sleep time and ensure that teens get the rest they need to feel awake and ready to conquer full schedules and busy days.

Find Your Path - Meet & Greet

Join us next Monday, August 25th from 3:00-4:00 PM to visit the school, walk schedule, try lockers and MEET TEACHERS!

Thank you for spending this Monday Minute with us!