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Tech Free Week at Norwood-Fontbonne Academy

Tech Free Week at Norwood-Fontbonne Academy

We are excited to announce that NFA will implement a Tech-Free Week from February 10-14. During this week, students and staff will refrain from using digital devices as much as possible. 

The rationale behind this tech-free week is to:

  • Encourage Focus
  • Foster Face-To-Face Communication, and
  • Give Students a Break from the Constant Digital Stimulation that can lead to Distraction and Disconnection. 

Throughout the week, we will prioritize more traditional learning methods—such as reading, discussions, and hands-on activities—which are already staples in many of our classrooms. It’s a great opportunity for our school community to be mindful of our technology use and to explore other ways of connecting and engaging with each other.


WHAT THIS MEANS FOR STUDENTS

All personal devices will be kept in the classroom’s designated storage area, as usual. NFA iPads will be locked away in storage bins throughout the duration of the week.


FOR PREK THROUGH GRADE 3

This will primarily involve just limiting technology use during classroom activities, as this is already a common practice in these grades.


FOR GRADES 4 - 8

The shift will be more intentional, and we anticipate that students may have questions about the changes. To prepare, we will be providing homeroom teachers with morning meeting lessons to discuss digital health and this initiative.


HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT AT HOME

We encourage you to consider implementing similar tech-free practices at home during this week, or even beyond. Here are a few ideas to get started:

  • Family Time Without Screens: Set aside time in the evenings or weekends to play board games, read books together, or enjoy outdoor activities without the distraction of devices.
     
  • Tech-Free Zones: Create a designated space in your home where devices are kept, and encourage tech-free meals and conversations to foster more meaningful connections.
     
  • Mindful Device Use: Set boundaries on recreational screen time, and consider using apps that help monitor or limit screen usage for both kids and adults.
     
  • Encourage other forms of engagement: Inspire your children to engage in creative activities such as drawing, writing, or building with blocks or LEGOs For older children, encourage your children to get involved in activities like cooking or baking, solving puzzles, reading a good book, or game night.

Taking time away from screens can be a refreshing reset, and it’s a great way to build stronger, more present relationships within the family. We hope you’ll join us in this initiative and use it as an opportunity to explore more balanced and mindful ways of connecting with each other.