SERVITE HIGH SCHOOL in Anaheim has gotten a jump on a state bill Gov. Gavin Newsom is expected to sign into law that would limit or prohibit smartphones at all public schools during the school day. 

When students at the all-boys Catholic high school in Anaheim reported to the first day of classes on Aug. 12, they did so without packing their latest iPhone, Google Pixel or Samsung Galaxy devices.

“Overall, I approve of the no-phone policy even though it has obvious cons,” said Servite student ambassador Michael Ghebrial, Class of 2026. “I feel as if my friends are more present unlike before, where they’d be scrolling through social media and show each other random videos occasionally.”

Because of the new policy, Michael has gone “old school.”

He now carries a notepad in his pocket to keep a to-do list and to write down stuff he needs to tell his parents and siblings that he can’t text while at school.

A HEALTHIER SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT
The new Servite policy followed a summer reading assignment faculty and staff did of Jonathon Haidt’s “The Anxious Generation,” which details how smartphones and other devices are leading to an increase in youth mental illness.

“At Servite High School, we are committed to fostering an environment where our students can thrive academically, socially and emotionally,” Principal Nancy Windisch said of the new policy. “As part of this commitment, we are excited to announce our new Phone-Free Campus initiative during the academic day.

“Recent studies, including insights from ‘The Anxious Generation,’ have highlighted the impact of constant digital engagement on young people’s mental health and well-being,” Windisch added. “Haidt’s research underscores the importance of reducing screen time to help students develop deeper connections, improve focus and reduce anxiety.

“By creating a phone-free campus,” the Service principal continued, “we aim to encourage our students to engage more fully in their learning, build stronger relationships with their peers and teachers and develop the essential life skills that will serve them well beyond their time at Servite High School. We believe that this initiative will contribute to a more mindful and balanced school experience, allowing our students to flourish in all areas of their lives.”

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