Students at Floyd C. Fretz Middle School participated in a unique “unplugged” day on February 13, 2024, where they set aside their devices to engage in hands-on learning and face-to-face interactions. This initiative, inspired by a podcast detailing a similar event at another school, aimed to foster personal connections among students and teachers.
Principal Melissa Merry introduced the concept during a staff meeting, seeking input on whether a day without technology would hinder teaching effectiveness. “I didn’t hear any objections, so we rolled with it, and I’m so glad we did,” she stated.
While cell phones are generally not problematic during school hours, Merry acknowledged that laptops can distract students. She emphasized the growing concern about overall screen time, noting, “When we think about screen time, we often think of cell phones, but laptops are screens too.”
Hands-On Learning and Community Building
All students participated in a variety of activities ranging from collaborative projects to traditional assignments that encouraged interpersonal communication. Merry highlighted the importance of these interactions, saying, “We’re working on those soft skills like face-to-face interaction, and those don’t come from a book or a laptop.”
The day was designed not only for academic engagement but also for community building. “I think the most important part was probably the discussions taking place,” Merry said. This approach allowed students to engage in critical life skills, reinforcing the value of personal interactions.
Feedback from students was overwhelmingly positive. Merry reported, “I was surprised I didn’t have any students who pushed back. It was accepted, and they were almost excited for it.” The school promoted the unplugged day with a lighthearted video message featuring a laptop expressing its need for a day off, which was shown in the days leading up to the event.
Looking Ahead
The success of this initiative has prompted discussions about future unplugged days. Merry noted that both students and staff have shown interest in participating again before the end of the school year. “I think we will definitely do it again,” she affirmed.
Ultimately, the unplugged day at Fretz Middle School underscored the importance of human connections in an increasingly digital world. Merry hopes students will recognize that “interactions and relationships with one another are what’s most important.” The ability to engage in face-to-face conversations remains a critical skill that extends beyond the classroom and into everyday life.
