Avondale Educators Featured on Cover of Michigan Education Association Magazine

The article highlights Avondale as a statewide example of how clear, consistent expectations around student device use can strengthen classroom engagement, improve school culture, and support students’ social and emotional development.

At the high school level, Vanessa Wentzloff shared that while the transition away from cell phones required an adjustment period, students quickly became more engaged with their learning and with one another. She also noted increased participation and energy during school-wide events, including assemblies.

At the middle school level, Kristen Little described the impact of the policy as “life-changing,” noting that students are more focused in class, more social during the school day, and more willing to interact across peer groups.

Across both schools, educators report that limiting cell phone use has helped students build stronger communication and interpersonal skills—an important focus of Avondale’s commitment to whole-child development. The MEA article also emphasizes that consistent implementation by staff has been key to the policy’s success, along with strong collaboration across schools and support from families.

We are proud of our featured educators and grateful to all Avondale staff for their continued work in creating learning environments where students are more present, engaged, and connected. Read the full article here: https://mea.org/how-one-district-shut-down-cell-phones-in-class/