West Liberty-Salem High School students put down their devices down on Leap Day, Feb. 29, taking a break from technology in an effort hosted by the Key Club’s Wellness sub-committee.
The sub-committee, chaired by Ava Johnson, has been committed to this event since the school’s October presentation by Captain Frank regarding Internet Safety.
Students were asked to complete a short survey that analyzed student relationships with their personal devices including phones, iPads, and smart watches. More than half of students responded and anonymously identified their areas of weakness when it comes to using their phones both timely and effectively.
They are asked to pause their use of those devices by turning them in during homeroom and spending the day free from technology.
High School teachers agreed to be a part of today’s tech free challenge by teaching classes with as little use of technology as possible! Students who participate will end the day with ‘open gym’ time and receive their devices back at the end of the day with an extra credit voucher to the class of their choosing.
Students on the wellness committee commented on how they planned to spend “Tech Free” Day:
“I’m going to use tech free day to focus more on my homework, studying and not procrastinating!” Ava Johnson, chairperson.
“I’m going to focus more on my classes, get caught up on my work, and listen to my friends without distractions.” Audrey Collins.
“I’m going to spend more time with my friends and have conversations with my peers.” Kaylee Blair.
“I plan to spend more time talking with friends without distractions and make sure we pay more attention to each other’s conversations.” -Sami King.
“I’m going to make sure I’m more focused on doing homework and using the bonus points toward Spanish.” Caleb Larson.
“I’m going to be more interactive with my friends at lunch and stay more focused on my classes.” Dylan King.
Parents and families also were encouraged to participate in the challenge and to ask students how they felt about going device-free.
The Key Club’s Wellness sub-committee organized the Tech Free Day at West Liberty-Salem High School. (WL-S PHOTO)