Ridge High School Trials Phone-Free Days

A school day without smartphones. That's what Ridge High School in New Jersey is planning to do. The school wants to see if leaving phones in backpacks for a whole day can boost student focus and well-being. The idea isn't new. Nearby William Annin School already does this. But Ridge High wants to give it a shot. "Phones off, but in backpacks for emergencies, " said student rep Joseph Dachnowicz. So, what's the deal with phones anyway? Some think they distract from learning and stress students out. The school wants to test this theory. But not everyone is thrilled. Some students might feel cut off or anxious. Will this phone-free day help or hurt? Only time will tell. The goal is simple: see if fewer phones mean better learning and happier students. It's a bold move in our digital age.