FERNDALE, Mich. — As Michigan schools begin a new academic year with increased attention on limiting cellphone use in classrooms, Ferndale Public Schools students are returning to something that has already been part of the school day for years: putting the phones away.

For at least four years, Ferndale Public Schools has maintained expectations around student cellphone and personal electronic device use, establishing age-appropriate guidelines from elementary through high school designed to reduce distractions and give students more opportunities to learn, interact and be present.

In other words, while cellphone restrictions may be a new back-to-school conversation across Michigan, Ferndale students already know the drill.

“Long before this became a statewide conversation, we recognized that our students needed spaces throughout their day where they could focus on learning and connect with the people around them,” Superintendent Camille Hibbler said. “Technology has tremendous value in education, but we also know there is value in giving students an opportunity to step away from their personal devices.”

Different ages, same goal

Ferndale’s approach varies depending on the student's age. At the elementary level, students are not permitted to have cellphones at school.

At Ferndale Middle School, students may not possess personal electronic devices while inside the school building. That includes cellphones, tablets, personal laptops, smartwatches and earbuds. Students are encouraged to secure devices in their lockers and may use them before entering the building and after school. That includes lunchtime.

Rather than scrolling through lunch, Ferndale Middle School encourages students to use the time to talk, play and socialize with their peers, while also getting a break from the screens they may use for learning throughout the day.

At Ferndale High School, students turn in cellphones and other personal electronic devices at the beginning of each class. Devices are secured in classroom storage and returned at the end of the class period.

Students who do not have a device place a staff-provided “No Device” card in their assigned slot.

High school students may use their phones during passing periods, lunch, and before and after school, giving students greater independence while maintaining device-free instructional time.

Less scrolling, more connecting

Across grade levels, the expectations share one purpose: creating environments where students can focus on instruction and engage with the people around them without competing with notifications, texts and social media.

The district also recognizes that families need to remain connected to their children. Parents and caregivers who need to reach a student during the school day can contact their school’s main office, and students have access to school phones when they need to contact home.

Ferndale’s approach also leaves room for technology where it belongs. School-issued devices and other technology continue to be used as instructional tools under the direction of teachers.

For Ferndale, the conversation has never been about whether technology belongs in education. It is about helping students understand when technology supports learning and when it is time to put it away.

So, as students return to Ferndale classrooms this fall, there will be plenty to adjust to: new teachers, new schedules and new classes.

The expectation to put the phone away? That’s nothing new in Ferndale.

About Ferndale Public Schools

Founded in 1887, Ferndale Public Schools serves approximately 3,100 students from the communities of Ferndale, Pleasant Ridge, Oak Park, Royal Oak Township and portions of Hazel Park. The district provides a comprehensive educational experience from early childhood through high school, offering rigorous academics, innovative learning opportunities, award-winning arts and athletics, career and technical education, and comprehensive social-emotional supports. Recognized for its commitment to equity, inclusion and student-centered learning, Ferndale Public Schools empowers every student to discover their potential, achieve academic success and become engaged members of their communities.

To learn more about Ferndale Public Schools, visit the website. To stay up to date on district news, events and announcements, visit the News page.