What happens when a high school struggling with smartphone distractions takes a bold step and starts locking away all devices — midway through the school year?

Even more unusual: the phones aren’t just put away; they’re locked up in classrooms for the entire day, except during lunch.

Dr. Delaney interviews Principal Deanna Albert to explore how implementing ‘Away for the Day’ policies transformed both learning and social interactions at Hardin High School.

Deanna shares the challenges and successes of making this shift, including how it improved student engagement, reduced distractions, and curbed social media-related issues.

 

Featured Expert

Principal Deanna Albert

 

Additional Links

Awayfortheday.org

 

Time Code

00:00 Introduction

00:15 About Screenagers & Away For The Day

01:04 Campaign Success and Challenges

01:38 Issues with Phone Policies in Schools

02:29 Interview with Principal Deanna Albert

04:42 Implementing the New Phone Policy

08:43 Positive Outcomes and Challenges

11:23 Community and Legal Implications

15:14 Final Thoughts and Resources