Cell phone ban pays dividends in Newfield schools

By Kevin L. Smith

The Newfield Central School District (CSD) is one of many school districts across the country to implement a cell phone ban.

Newfield CSD initiated the ban in September 2023. Over a year later, school officials have reported results.

NCSD Director of Curriculum Sunny Miller, Middle School Principal Melissa Addy and Elementary School Principal Kym Stine gave a presentation at the Nov. 21 board of education meeting on the positive impact of the district-wide ban.

Students, staff and parents have expressed how making cell phones obsolete during the school day has provided a better outlook on schoolwork and more.

According to the presentation, the goals of the ban are to decrease discipline referrals, increase classroom engagement, strengthen social skills and foster a positive school culture.

The ban brings in the peak-end theory, which explains how people remember their experiences by focusing on two key points:

• Peak: The most intense moment, whether it’s positive or negative
• End: How the experience concludes

The presentation stated that “how students and staff perceive the experience of a cell phone ban can be shaped by these key moments,” which affect “their long-term acceptance and attitude.”

During the early stages of the ban, the presenters noted that students expressed frustration, resistance and the fear of missing out (FOMO).

“Some students experience a peak of negative emotion when the ban is first introduced due to withdrawal from phones,” the presentation said. “It comes with initial refusal to comply, with the feeling of losing autonomy or entertainment. [FOMO] follows with concerns over social connections, missing notifications and updates.”

The strategies that NCSD used to mitigate negative peaks were:

• Clear communication about the benefits of the ban
• Phased implementation with gradual restrictions
• Offering alternative, engaging activities to fill the gap

A plan of action from school officials led to improved engagement and enhanced social connections from students, as well as positive teacher feedback.

“Students notice they can focus better in class without distractions,” the presentation said. “It allowed opportunities for deeper face-to-face conversations and participation in group activities. Teachers also reported fewer behavioral disruptions and better classroom classroom dynamics.”

The turnaround made for a successful “end experience” out of the peak-end theory, the presenters said. It allowed for the following:

• Sense of accomplishment: Reflecting on improvements in academic performance, peer relationships and school culture without cell phones
• Positive memory: If the school year ends with improved outcomes (higher engagement, less conflict), students and staff are more likely to remember the ban positively

The presenters also provided some curriculum numbers for the stretch of the ban between 2023 and 2024. Grades kindergarten through 12 showed that 75% of students will be on or above grade levels.

According to state test results, grades three through eight saw a 34% increase in math and an 18% spike in English/language arts in terms of improvement in the classroom.

As the ban continues, the presenters anticipate that students will adapt to it, especially if staff members and parents continue to support the plan.

More information on the cell phone ban report is at newfieldschools.org.

Newfield Notes appears every week in Tompkins Weekly. Send story ideas to editorial@vizellamedia.com.

In brief:

Newfield United Methodist Church to host ‘Blue Christmas’ event

The Newfield United Methodist Church, located at 227 Main St., will host a “Blue Christmas” event on Dec. 20 at 7 p.m.

The event is a service of hope for the grieving, sad or lonely during the Christmas season.

According to a description, the church’s event recognizes that “we often feel singled out by the programmed happiness of ‘the most wonderful time of the year,’ but we are not alone. If you or a loved one is experiencing stress, sadness, or loss we invite you to our service. Come as you are and experience the hope in Jesus’ birth.”

For more information, contact Shelley Yaple at shelleybell63@gmail.com.

Wreath workshop at the library on Dec. 21

The Newfield Public Library will have a wreath workshop on Dec. 21 at noon.

The workshop will be led by Carlin Wakefield. Essentials will be provided, as Wakefield shows methods for making a wreath. Decorations can be added to the wreaths.

There is a limit of 12 participants for the workshop. Those interested can call 607-564-3594, email newfieldlibrary@gmail.com or stop by the library.

Yoga for beginners held on Saturdays this month

A yoga for beginners class will be held on Saturdays at Newfield Public Library from 10 to 11 a.m.

There will be no Saturday class on Dec. 28.

Phyllis KuanYin Chi, a yoga teacher certified through Yoga Farm in Lansing, will lead the class. The instructor also has additional training in trauma-informed yoga.

The class is on the second floor of the library. It is suitable for people new to yoga or those with mobility issues. There is also an opportunity to deepen poses for those with more experience.

The class is for ages 18 and older. Participants must have their own yoga mat or blanket. The class is free, but there is a suggested donation of $10.