How One School’s Bold Move to Lock Away Phones Transformed Learning

What happens when a high school struggling with smartphone distractions takes a bold step and starts locking away all devices — midway through the school year? Even more unusual: the phones aren’t just put away; they’re locked up in classrooms for the entire day, except during lunch. Dr. Delaney interviews Principal Deanna Albert to explore how implementing ‘Away for the Day’ policies transformed both learning and social interactions at Hardin High School. Deanna shares the challenges and successes of making this shift, including how it improved student engagement, reduced distractions, and curbed social media-related issues.   Featured Expert Principal Deanna Albert   Additional Links Awayfortheday.org   Time Code 00:00 Introduction 00:15 About Screenagers & Away For The Day 01:04 Campaign Success and Challenges 01:38 Issues with Phone Policies in Schools 02:29 Interview with Principal Deanna Albert 04:42 Implementing the New Phone Policy 08:43 Positive Outcomes and Challenges 11:23 Community and Legal Implications 15:14 Final Thoughts and Resources