Dear Marshall Springs School Community,

Each year we collect feedback from parents, students and staff about various factors contributing to students’ overall school experience. This year’s data has indicated the need to support an increased sense of community and to support improved student wellness.

In response to this information, Marshall Springs will make two significant changes for the new school year (2024-2025):

New Bell Schedule 2024-2025

Our new Bell Schedule is attached. Some of the changes include:

·       Later lunch period (Monday-Thursday).

·       Added nutrition break in the AM (Monday-Friday).

·       Additional Homeroom periods to promote sense of community and school initiatives.

·       Later end of day dismissal (Monday-Thursday).

Marshall Springs Cell Phone Policy

Many of our neighboring middle/junior high schools have implemented similar policies, requiring student cell phones to remain in lockers for the entire day, sometimes being allowed out during designated times (eg. Lunch). Also, other school boards, provinces, and countries around the world are banning cell phones from schools and learning spaces to reduce and eliminate the distractions to teaching and learning and improve student mental health and well-being.

We will share the final cell phone policy and details about implementation mid-August 2024 before the start of the 2024-2025 school year. In the meantime, we would like our community to be aware that a school wide cell phone is coming to Marshall Springs.

***At minimum, cell phones will not be available to students nor allowed in all learning spaces during instructional time.  During instructional time – cellphones will be stored outside learning spaces in student lockers***

Below are important areas of focus for parents/guardians about why we have decided to limit cell phone use for MSS students:

1. Promoting Social Interaction:
2. • Fostering face-to-face communication: Without cell phones, students are more likely to engage in direct conversations with their peers, building stronger social skills and relationships.
   • Encouraging inclusivity: Students may be more inclined to include others in conversations and activities, reducing feelings of isolation or exclusion for those who might otherwise be ignored if everyone is absorbed in their devices.
2. Reducing Distractions and Improving Mental Health:
3. • Encouraging mindfulness: Cell phones can be a significant distraction, preventing students from being present in the moment. By limiting access, students may have a more mindful and enjoyable break.
   • Mitigating stress and anxiety: Continuous social media use and online interactions can contribute to stress and anxiety. A break from cell phones allows students to relax and unwind, which is crucial for their mental well-being.
3. Promoting Healthy Habits:
4. • Encouraging physical activity: Without cell phones, students might be more inclined to engage in physical activities, such as playing sports or games, which are beneficial for their physical health.
4. An Increased Focus on Teaching and Learning.
5. An Increased Focus on Welcoming, Caring, Respectful, and Safe Learning and Working Environments.

The following website, AWAY FOR THE DAY, contains research and data supporting students not having access to cell phones during instructional times.

Thank you,

MSS Administration and Staff