At the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year, LMSD implemented "Off and Away" to direct the use of personal devices, such as cell phones and smart watches, in our schools. "Off and Away" remains in effect at all levels in LMSD this year. 

"Off and Away" was developed by a subcommittee of the LMSD Wellness Council at the request of the Lower Merion Board of School Directors. The subcommittee included LMSD staff, administrators and community members, with a wide range of perspectives on this topic. What the members had in common was an abiding concern for protecting and ensuring the physical health and mental wellbeing of our students, as well as promoting a positive learning environment in our schools.

“Off and Away” does not ban students from bringing devices to school, nor from using them at appropriate times and places. “Off and Away” does aim to change the school culture around devices, to lessen distractions in our classrooms and to decrease the stress students report due to the expectation to read and/or reply to text messages, social media posts, group chats, etc. when they are trying to focus on learning.

Simply stated, “Off and Away” means that when students are in class, devices are to be turned off and put away. In elementary and middle schools, this applies at all times when students are on campus or at school events. At the high school level, students may be able to access their devices during free periods, Lunch and Learn, and between classes. Some exceptions may occur for specific circumstances, such as emergencies, as referenced in Policy and AR 235.

The successful implementation of "Off and Away" and the cultural change in how devices are used at school hinges on cooperation and collaboration among students and their families. 

There are times during the school day when a parent or guardian may need to contact their child. If a parent or guardian needs to speak to their student immediately in the case of an emergency, they should call the main office at the student's school. Staff will get the student to a phone. In other cases, parents and guardians are asked to let children know that it's OK not to respond immediately to a call or text. 

The specific Policies and practices regarding “Off and Away” vary by educational level and are explained in detail in the FAQ document, which you can access here. The document also includes link to research on the connection between students' use of devices and social media and their health and wellbeing.

Off and Away Guidance by Level

• Grades K-4
• Grades 5-8
• Grades 9-12