Off and Away Cell Phone Initiative FAQ

Starting September 2, 2025, all students must keep their cell phones powered off and away from 8:30 a.m. to 3:10 p.m.

“Away” means the phone can remain in the student’s possession (e.g., in a backpack or pocket), but it may not be used, visible, or accessed during the school day.

Yes. Students with accommodations documented in an IEP or 504 Plan that allow for cell phone use will be permitted to use their devices as specified.

The policy is in response to:

• Rising concerns about the effects of phones on student mental health
• A desire to improve academic focus and in-person social interactions
• Input from RHS staff surveys, student and parent focus groups, and national research
• Positive results from a similar approach already used at Radnor Middle School
• Expert guidance from authors like Jonathan Haidt, who advocates for phone-free school time in The Anxious Generation

A designated space will be available in the school building where students may request to use their phone in case of urgent need.

You can call the main office at 610-293-0855 and staff will assist in getting a message to your child or connecting you as needed.

Yes. Students will continue to use their school-issued laptop or their own personal laptop for classroom learning. The “Off and Away” policy only applies to personal mobile devices.

It means:

• Phones must be powered completely off, not just silenced or in airplane mode
• Phones may stay on the student’s person (e.g., in a backpack or pocket)
• Phones may not be used for any reason during class time, in hallways, or at lunch without permission

You can help by:

• Talking with your child about the importance of disconnecting during the school day
• Encouraging your child to follow the policy consistently
• Modeling and promoting healthy boundaries around screen time

Please feel free to contact Dr. Joseph MacNamara, Principal of Radnor High School:
joseph.macnamara@rtsd.org
610-293-0855 ext. 3500