The new phone-free school day in Westminster Public Schools (WPS) is already transforming classrooms, shifting the focus back to genuine connection and learning. Without the constant digital distractions, teachers are reporting a noticeable spike in student engagement. 

“Having students’ complete attention makes a huge difference,” noted Mr. Van, a WPS teacher of nearly 30 years. “When I’m not competing with a screen, teaching becomes possible again. Students are more present, more focused and much easier to engage.”

This success extends far beyond academics, sparking a welcome return to face-to-face socialization. Instead of scrolling through social media during downtime, students are talking, playing tabletop games, and building real-world relationships. 

“Students who do not normally converse are developing friendships without a cellphone coming between them,” observed Hidden Lake Secondary School Teacher Mark Belnay. Students are feeling the positive shift as well, with one student observing, “Going phone-free has helped me connect with people and focus better.”

Surprisingly, the transition has been so seamless that educators report many students do not even miss their devices. By removing screens from the equation, students have the space to develop stronger connections to classroom content. With heads up and phones down, WPS students are proving that when they are fully present, they can build the academic and personal connections that matter most.

“More engagement leads to more questions, more curiosity and, ultimately, more learning,” Mr. Van said. “When students are truly paying attention and participating in the moment, you can see their natural curiosity coming back.”

Learn more about the WPS Personal Communication Device Policy