Cell phone use at WIS

Posted Date: 06/17/2024

June 14, 2024

Dear WIS Families,

I hope this message finds you ready for a summer filled with fun, family time, and relaxation. As the year comes to a close, I want to take a moment to address recent discussions that have been happening this spring regarding cell phone use in schools. Our district and school administrative team has listened to feedback from parents, spoken to staff, and read research on this topic. Our students’ social-emotional well-being is important to their success in school. 

In prior years, WIS students were told that cell phones or smartwatches were not allowed during the school day.  Students were told that if they brought them to school they were to be turned off and placed in their backpack until the end of the school day. Beginning August 27, WIS students should not bring cell phones/smart watches to school and they are not to use these devices on the bus as well.

The bus has been especially challenging with the older elementary children. For the 2024-2025 school year, there will be signs posted as a reminder on our buses. Staff is committed to reinforcing this message at arrival and dismissal.  However, it is very difficult for our bus drivers to enforce this rule while they are focused on the road and the bus stops. While there are cameras on the buses, it is not easy to see when young children are on these devices. Therefore, I am asking for your support in reinforcing this message at home as well.

Our goal is to ensure that, while at school, children are able to focus, work hard, and have fun.

We appreciate your cooperation and understanding in this matter. Thank you for your support as we strive to maintain a positive and productive learning environment for our WIS students.

Sincerely,

Patricia Falber
Principal