We love seeing our students continue to interact with one another during morning choice time without the use of devices. We also had two days of indoor recess due to the heat advisory, and once again, our students made the most of the opportunity to play board games and card games, work on Math 24, talk with friends, draw, read, and engage in many other activities. Homework was also sent home during Week 2, and we intentionally kept it off computers. We want our students to know that learning, creativity, and connection do not always require a screen.

Our school is taking the reduction of device time very seriously, and we are asking our families to partner with us by reinforcing these expectations at home. We have noticed several students in Grades 2–5 arriving at school tired during Week 2, and some students have shared that they are staying up late gaming or scrolling on their phones. When students do not get enough sleep, it can impact their ability to focus, learn, regulate their emotions, and fully participate in the school day.

We also encourage families to be mindful of the 2:00–6:00 PM timeframe and consider using this time to help students grow socially and emotionally through play, conversation, physical activity, hobbies, reading, and time spent with others. If students are spending three or more hours on devices during this timeframe, the reduction of device use at school does not have the intended impact.

If you are looking for activities or opportunities that connect with your child's interests, please contact our school office. We would be happy to share a list of local childcare providers, programs, and other resources that may provide meaningful opportunities outside of school.

Thank you for partnering with us to help our students develop healthy habits for both mind and body. When school and home work together to create consistent expectations around sleep, screen time, play, and healthy relationships, we give our students the best opportunity to come to school ready to learn, connect, and thrive. This is the Power of Us!