Summary
As schools across Vermont reconsider the role of technology in the school day, TSA is sharing what we’ve learned from two years as a cell phone-free school and where we’re headed next.
TSA in the News
VERMONT PUBLIC | VERMONT EDITION
Dean of Students Blake Fabrikant talks about what TSA has learned from two years as a cell phone-free school and what comes next.
Listen to the conversation →
Blake joins around the 17-minute mark.
VALLEY NEWS
TSA is featured in a broader look at how Upper Valley schools are reconsidering the role of technology in education.
When Does Technology Strengthen Learning, and When Does it get in the Way?
At The Sharon Academy, we believe technology is an important tool for learning, but it doesn’t need to be a constant presence in the school day.
Two years ago, TSA became a cell phone-free school. We saw students talking with one another more, engaging more fully in class, and spending less time retreating into screens between classes. That experience led us to look more closely at the role of technology throughout the school day.
The Next Step
This year, TSA is moving away from personal laptops during the school day and toward a shared computer cart system, with devices available when students need them for specific academic work.
Students will still use technology for research, writing, spreadsheets, and other work where digital tools add value. Students whose learning plans call for technology will continue to have access to the tools and accommodations they need.
The goal isn’t less technology simply for the sake of having less technology. It’s using technology with purpose.
Making Space for What Matters
As a small school, relationships are at the heart of how we learn. Teachers know their students well. Students learn with and from one another. Discussion, collaboration, creativity, and the ability to wrestle with an idea all require attention.
Being tech-intentional helps us protect space for those things while also helping students learn when and how technology can be a valuable tool.
“We are not anti-technology. We are pro-learning and pro-human relationships.”
Mary Newman, Head of School
Curious About a Different School Experience?
There’s no better way to understand TSA than to spend some time here. Schedule a visit, meet our students and teachers, ask questions, and see our school community in action.
