In an era dominated by technology, Salisbury School is charting a distinctive course towards fostering a balanced and connected community with its new limited cell phone and electronic device use policy. Recognizing the importance of face-to-face interactions and mindful engagement, the school aims to create an environment that encourages genuine connections among students. This blog post delves into the benefits for both students and the broader School community.

The Changing Landscape of Technology: As technology continues to evolve, so does its impact on our daily lives. Smartphones have become ubiquitous, providing instant access to information, communication, and entertainment. Salisbury recognizes that such devices can be valuable academic tools when used properly. However, with these benefits come challenges, particularly in educational settings. Salisbury School acknowledges the need to strike a balance between harnessing the advantages of technology and fostering interpersonal relationships.

Salisbury School's limited cell phone and electronic use policy is driven by a vision to create an environment that prioritizes meaningful connections and personal growth, focused learning, courteous interactions and a sense of community.

The Vision Behind the Policy: By encouraging students to be present in the moment and engage with their surroundings, the School aims to enhance the overall experience on the Hilltop. This policy aligns with Salisbury School's commitment to educating young men of character, integrity and respect, emphasizing not just academic success but also personal development.  It is important to note that this newly adopted policy not only applies to student but to the School's faculty and staff as well.

When in certain areas on Salisbury's campus, such as classrooms, the dining hall, Chapel, and Seifert Theatre, members of the community are not permitted to use cell phones or devices.  Some caveats are outlined for students, faculty and staff, noting that teacher’s may grant permission for note-taking, class-related research, and class-related assignments, or that sometimes students work on assignments in the Dining Hall; therefore, courteous and reasonable use of tablets and laptops is allowed. 

Benefits for Students:

• Strengthening Brotherhood through Face-to-Face Interaction: At Salisbury School, the absence of cell phones and devices serves as a catalyst for building stronger bonds among students. Limited phone use encourages students to engage in face-to-face interactions, fostering the development of essential social skills that are crucial for their future success. These interpersonal interactions become the norm, promoting camaraderie and the sense of Brotherhood that defines the Salisbury experience.

• Preserving the Tradition of Academic Growth and Success: By eliminating the constant hum of notifications and text messages, students are better positioned to focus on their studies, fostering an atmosphere conducive to learning and a more enriching learning experience.

• Healthy Life Balance: By reducing the omnipresence of cell phones and devices, the School aims to promote a healthy balance between online and offline activities, encouraging students to engage with their peers and adults within the community.  This further strengthens the bonds of the Salisbury Brotherhood and fosters an environment where students are empowered to engage and have the supportive and trusted relationships necessary for guidance and growth.

• Cultivating Responsible Tech Habits: The School's commitment to molding well-rounded young men extends to fostering responsible technology use. By implementing a limited cell phone and device use policy, Salisbury guides students toward developing a balanced relationship with digital devices, equipping them with essential life skills for the future.

Salisbury School's limited cell phone and device policy reflects a commitment to creating a vibrant and connected learning community. By fostering a culture that values in-person connections, the School aims to prepare students not only academically but also socially for the challenges of the future. Supported by research and best practices, Salisbury's limited cell phone and device use policy was guided by the School's mission to nurture well-rounded individuals ready to thrive in an ever-changing world.