Students want a say in how smartphone bans at school work. Many teens aren’t opposed to limiting screen access in classrooms. However, they often feel it isn’t a catchall solution to the harm it’s aiming to reduce and that students aren’t consulted enough on what actually works. Whether alongside a ban or in place of one, some students feel the answer is digital wellness education that extends to their screen use at home and relationship with social media. (And now AI.) Some students are looking to be part of the ban implementation, joining councils to advise their schools on messaging and approach. In New York, a non-profit called #HalfTheStory offers grants for tech-free experiences designed by students, which include ways to connect in-person and activities to replace screen time at school. (The Guardian)
