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Dear Mooney Family,
As we navigate the complexities of the digital age, it is essential to reflect on how technology, particularly cell phone use, affects our students' social, emotional, and academic well-being. Recent research from several leading organizations highlights key insights and potential concerns that we must address together as a school community.
The impact of technology on social and emotional development
Adolescents today are growing up in a world where technology is ever-present. Research by the American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes that the constant use of cell phones can "crowd out" important aspects of teen life, including family time, academics, and face-to-face interactions. Technology, especially social media, can disrupt essential developmental milestones by exposing teens to adult content and experiences before they are equipped with the real-world skills to process them.
In his book “The Anxious Generation,” Jonathan Haidt points out that teens today experience fragmented emotional growth because of their dependence on cell phones, which offer no structured window for development. They are exposed to the entire world at once without the guidance of trusted adults, leaving them vulnerable to anxiety, depression, and even addiction.
Academic disruptions
Data from the University of California, Irvine, reveals that it takes the average person 23 minutes to refocus after being interrupted by a cell phone notification. With each Cardinal Mooney class lasting 80 minutes, just three notifications can derail a student's entire focus during that period. Furthermore, the average adolescent receives 237 notifications daily and spends more than 40 hours per week on their phone. This constant distraction can significantly affect academic performance.
Safety concerns in school
Cell phone use also poses serious safety risks at school. The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce reports that phones can undermine school safety in several ways:
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Bullying and violence: Phones can be used to spread harmful content, including bullying, threats, or misinformation.
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Bypassing school protocols: Students and parents may communicate directly instead of notifying school officials, leading to disruptions during the school day.
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Emergency situations: Phones can be a distraction during critical moments, such as when students need to remain silent during an emergency or when parents arrive prematurely, complicating rescue or reunification efforts.
What we can do
As parents and educators, we must work together to establish healthy boundaries for technology use. We should encourage intentional media consumption, limit screen time, and ensure that our students have the skills to navigate both the virtual and real worlds. As a school, we will continue to research and discuss ways to help our students successfully mitigate some of the negative impacts of technology.
Warm Regards,
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Nick Beyer
President/Principal
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IMPORTANT DATES
Week of March 9
Cardinal Commitment (New Student Registration): Tuesday, March 11, 3:30–6:30 p.m., Library
5th and 6th Grade Day (no school): Friday, March 14, CMHS
Sound of Music (dinner show): Friday, March 14, 6 p.m., Auditorium
Sound of Music (spring play): Saturday, March 15, 7 p.m., Auditorium
Softball Camp: Sunday, March 16, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., Ron Stoops Sr. Baseball Facility
Week of March 16
Sound of Music (spring play): Sunday, March 16, 2 p.m., Auditorium
Spring Break (no school): Friday, March 21, CMHS
Week of March 23
Spring Break (no school): March 21-March 28
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Partnership with Hallow to enhance spiritual growth
As we prepare our hearts and minds for the holy season of Lent, we are thrilled to announce a new partnership between Cardinal Mooney High School and Hallow For Schools! Hallow is the No. 1 app for Catholic and Christian prayer, offering a powerful way to deepen your faith journey through guided prayers, daily reflections, meditations, and more.
Starting this Lent, all students and families will have free access to Hallow’s extensive library of resources, designed to help us draw closer to Christ and grow together as a faith community. This partnership is a wonderful opportunity to enhance our mission as a Catholic school—fostering an environment where we can compete, learn, pray, and thrive in our spiritual lives.
Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Daily Gospel reflections to accompany your Lenten journey
- Peaceful prayers and meditations
- Spiritual challenges to strengthen your faith
- A supportive space for prayer and reflection
Students, stay tuned for more information on how to activate your free access and make the most of this incredible resource throughout Lent and beyond.
Let us embrace this season of renewal with open hearts and a commitment to prayer!
Blessings,
The Campus Ministry Team
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Photos by Jim Stickel, Class of 2011
Father John Rovnak, our school chaplain, leads Cardinal Mooney students in prayer and reflection during the Ash Wednesday Mass, marking the beginning of Lent.
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Armory open hours
Our training facility, The Armory, will be open for students from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., every Monday through Thursday. Please read our Armory Access Policy here.
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'Science Night' gets a super theme
YOUNGSTOWN — Cardinal Mooney High School will host its 7th Annual Science Night on Thursday, April 3, from 5 to 7 p.m. The “superhero”-themed event is open to area students in third, fourth, and fifth grades. Young scientists are invited to explore interactive exhibits and hands-on activities designed to make science both fun and educational.
Visit our website to register.
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Policy nominated for Educator Of The Year
By AMIRA BROWN
Beakon Staff Writer
YOUNGSTOWN — When it comes to inspiring students and uplifting her school community, Jennifer Policy’s impact goes far beyond the classroom.
Policy, a science teacher at Cardinal Mooney High School, has been nominated for the Mahoning Valley Educator of the Year award, which recognizes outstanding teachers in the region.
The award will be presented in March at the Eastwood Event Center. Policy was nominated by Janet Cadmen, assistant principal at Cardinal Mooney, for her commitment to students and the school community.
“What inspired me to nominate Miss Policy is her dedication to this school and its students,” Cadmen said. “She’s always one of the first to volunteer and help out when needed. She attends school events and is committed to continuing her education.”
Policy, who teaches biology, chemistry, and AP courses, said she was surprised by the nomination.
“I was incredibly shocked. I’m not sure I’m the most deserving person in the world to receive this award,” she said.
Though she has not yet won, Policy said she is honored to be considered.
“I’ve been here for a while, and teaching isn’t just about the classroom — it’s also about participating in extracurriculars and supporting students beyond academics,” she said.
The Mahoning Valley Educator of the Year award recognizes teachers who go above and beyond in their roles. The winner will be announced at the March ceremony.
This story was written as part of our journalism class. This and other stories can be read on The Beakon page.
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Our Red And Gold Gala presents The Red Party — and it's right around the corner. Get details on one of our biggest events now!
To learn more, contact Sue Brandenstein.
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