Thursday, June 27, 2024
Dear Fulton School Community,
I hope that this letter finds you and your children enjoying the summer season.
I am writing today to share with you that, in view of increasing concerns about the detrimental impacts of smartphone and social media use on children and adolescents, and in a spirit of solidarity with other school communities throughout Greater St. Louis, The Fulton School is proud to be a signatory of the Joint Statement to Parents and Guardians on Smartphones and Social Media published today. The Statement acknowledges the challenges that smartphones and social media present to families and school communities alike. It is both a collective expression of solidarity with parents and a broad call to action from school leaders across the St. Louis region in affirmation of our mutual commitment to the healthy development of your children.
While this statement does not include any school policy, I thought this might be a good moment to review our device policy. We do not allow any devices at school or school sponsored events for Lower School students (toddler through 6th grade). We allow 7th and 8th grade students to bring devices, however they must be stored in a centrally located, designated spot, where students may access them briefly on their breaks. High school students may bring their phones, but they may not be seen or heard during classes and meetings. We also have all 4th-12th grade students discuss and sign our Technology Agreement (click here to view) each year.
I hope this Joint Statement is empowering and helpful to you as you navigate this complex topic within your families. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me any time to discuss, brainstorm, or share your perspectives and concerns surrounding these challenges. I love interacting with all of you, and there are many ways to approach this.
Warmly,
Kara Douglass
Head of School
The Fulton School