Dear Parents and Guardians,
I am reaching out to inform you about an exciting initiative we are implementing at Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk High School: a Cell Phone Free Week from April 28 to May 2. This effort is designed to encourage students to be more engaged in their learning, foster face-to-face social interactions, and reduce the distractions that come with mobile phone use during the school day.
Research has shown that excessive cell phone use can negatively impact students’ focus, academic performance, and mental well-being. According to a study by the Pew Research Center, 54% of teens say they spend too much time on their phones, and a report from Common Sense Media found that 50% of teens feel addicted to their devices. Furthermore, studies have linked increased screen time to higher levels of anxiety, depression, and reduced sleep quality among adolescents.
During this Cell Phone-Free Week, students will be required to keep their phones in their lockers or backpacks during school hours. Our goal is to create an environment where students can fully immerse themselves in classroom discussions, participate actively in lessons, and build stronger connections with their peers and teachers.
We understand that mobile devices are an essential part of communication, and we want to assure you that students will still have access to phones before and after school. If an emergency arises, parents can always reach their children through the main office.
We appreciate your support in helping us make this initiative a success. Encouraging your child to embrace this challenge with a positive mindset will go a long way in reinforcing the benefits of reduced screen time.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at: rfunck@rcscsd.org or 518-756-5200. Thank you for your partnership in promoting a focused and enriching learning environment.
Sincerely,
Ryan Funck
Principal, Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk High School
Collecting and Sharing Information:
The cell phone free week will be used to collect feedback and data on the impact of cell phone usage during the school day. Here is how we will collect feedback from our students:
The week of April 22 -25, High school administration will meet with grade levels to discuss the cell phone free week, including expectations.
On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, Principal Ryan Funck will be available in the high school culinary room from 6-6:30 p.m. to meet with any parents/guardians regarding the cell phone free week.
High School administration will meet with students again the week after the cell phone free week to gather feedback from the students about how the week went.
High school administration will compile feedback and data collected and share the results with students and parents/guardians.