High school bans use of phones next academic year to address student mental health concerns [Video]

DES MOINES, Iowa (KCCI) – A high school in Des Moines, Iowa is banning students from using their phones, headphones, and air pods during the school day.

The new policy at Hoover High School aims to improve students’ mental health. It will take effect at the start of the next school year.

Student Caden Walker admits to scrolling Instagram a lot during the day.

“I feel like a lot of my mental issues were definitely amplified by the use of my phone because it provides distractions,” Walker said.

Gen Z is more digitally connected than ever. Most teenagers like Walker have access to smartphones and use social media for more than eight hours a day.

That is causing concern for school administrators at Hoover High School about students’ well-being.

This fall, they are ditching digital distractions to improve mental health. The plan is part of the Hoover Mental Health Movement.

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