GAC implemented a new initiative to further support student well-being and academic focus by creating a more phone-free environment. Building on our existing schoolwide phone-free policy, which requires students to keep their devices powered off and stored in backpacks, students in grades 6-12 now store their cell phones and smartwatches in school-issued Yondr Pouches. The pouch initiative aims to reduce distractions, promote genuine social interaction, improve student mental health, and enhance learning experiences. We hope that the use of phone pouches not only enhances our students’ academic success but also creates space for them to embrace all that God  has in store for their lives. Over the summer of 2024, the GAC community read The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt,  which furthered conversations and understanding about the GAC phone policy. After exploring how growing up in a technology-driven society impacts Generation Z’s mental health, we recognized the need to partner with parents to protect and nurture our students’ physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

“Research continues to mount about the addictive nature of smartphones and social media. We recognize that even the best, most well-enforced rule is inadequate to meet the challenge these  technologies pose to our students’ well-being and educational experiences. That’s why we believe the Yondr Pouches will serve as a tool for our students,” Dr. Scott Harsh, President, said. “Our teachers have asked for a resource to focus on teaching and building relationships with students, not monitoring phone use. The research is compelling, the addiction is real, and our students need our help.

Here is what the GAC Community has to say:

“Having phones out of sight in a locked pouch is a game changer for classroom engagement. Several of my seniors have said it is almost a relief—they want to prove to themselves that they aren’t addicted to their phones,” remarked Tammy Hughes, GAC High School teacher.

“I think it’s better without phones. You can focus more in class and build stronger connections with your friends,” shared Vanna, a 10th-grade student at GAC.

“Providing students a way to say no to the pull of their phones is a gift. It allows them to give more attention to school and friends. It is also a gift to us as teachers, removing one distraction. We pray that students are present and intentional, forming good connections with peers, the class material, and the wonder and beauty around them. The phone pouches help us achieve those goals,” Megan Wilson, GAC High School teacher, said.

“When we’re in school without our phones, we communicate more. We find more things to talk about and are more interactive,” Tyler, a 10th-grader, told us.

“You can’t read the research and not think, ‘I have to try something different,’” TJ Dixon, Middle School Principal