Sometimes, when unraveling a concern and offering solutions, we lose the forest for the trees. It’s easy to get caught up in details, something I’m guilty of. Too much context can obscure an issue’s seemingly obvious conclusion or solution. For leaders and problem-solvers, the key is to present clear, concise recommendations upfront. If the minutiae becomes overwhelming, simplicity is often the best path forward.

A guiding principle I often return to is: Don’t check your passions at the door. However, not everyone shares the same passion for a particular issue. Many may lack the interest or the bandwidth to dive deep into problem identification and solution design.

Take, for example, a newly implemented 1:1 device program alongside a no-smartphone policy. We saw a clear shift: student distractions moved from smartphones to the freshly provided devices. Data supported the need to adjust school-based Internet filtering, especially as social networking and doom scrolling began chipping away at academic time, even without smartphones. In the words of Jeff Goldblum’s character in Jurassic Park, “Students will find a way.” Whack-a-mole at its finest.

To address this, I made digital distraction management a professional practice goal, ensuring solutions remained within budget. I presented research-backed data to stakeholders, facilitated discussions with teachers and parents, and held multiple meetings with our filtering provider to explore adjustments. I consistently shared insights through emails, presentations, and in-person conversations.

I got caught in the weeds. Provided too much information and details. I didn’t check my passion at the door. Maybe I should have. There’s wisdom in keeping it simple because, sometimes, that moves the needle.

In identifying the problem of students moving their doom scrolling and social networking use over to the new 1:1 device, I should have started with a one-pager, as I have created below. This should have been a starting point.

Clear Recommendations for Enhancing Student Focus and Safety

 

1. Block Social Networking Sites

  • Aligns with current district practices at all other schools
  • Supports the No Smartphone Policy by limiting similar distractions on the 1:1 device.
  • Protects critical instructional time.
  • Reduces student disengagement and academic distractions.

2. Activate Greater Filtering Tools During School Hours

  • Enables real-time monitoring for self-harm and violence threats.
  • Human moderators review concerns and notify school officials immediately, if urgent, during school hours.

3. Address After-School Monitoring Concerns with Parental App

  • Gives parents/guardians granular control over student device access at home.
  • Parents can deactivate internet access on their child’s 1:1 device after a set time, promoting healthy screen habits.
  • Balances monitoring between school and home, empowering parents.

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