ESC Student Wellness Department Newsletter

September/October 2024

As we begin yet another exciting academic year, our Student Wellness team and I wish to extend a warm welcome to the 2024-25 academic year. As the Director of Student Wellness of the ESC of Northeast Ohio, it gives me great pleasure to present to you this year’s first issue of the Student Wellness Newsletter. It is filled with valuable insights, resources, and support for students and professionals.

Please take some time to enjoy learning about some helpful wellness tips, our upcoming professional learning opportunities and featured stories.

Our team is here for you and we are committed to making this year a time of growth, learning, and positive change for ourselves and those around us.

Sincerely,

Anthony Pizzuti, Ph.D, PC, NCC

Director of Student Wellness

No Cell Phones; No Problems! Preparation and Consistency are Key Factors to Implementation Success

The 2024-2025 school year marks the first year of implementation of a state-wide law restricting student cell phone use during the school day. The school cell phone policy is intended to increase student engagement, improve academic outcomes, and reduce safety concerns such as bullying, school violence, and declining youth mental health.

The Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD) announced the move to cell phone free zones in May 2024 as part of a negotiated agreement between the teacher’s union and the school board. This occurred prior to the statewide ban. The Student Wellness Department (SWD) interviewed two CMSD principals from extended year schools to learn about their policy roll-out. With almost four weeks of school under their belts, high school principals Brian Evans and Juliet King shared some valuable insights.

What are the demographics of your high school? What makes your school unique?

Brian Evans: John Adams College and Career Academy is located on Cleveland’s east side and serves 471 scholars in 9th through 12th grades. Curriculum is focused on academic rigor and scholars are offered both advanced placement and college credit plus classes.

Juliet King: Lincoln-West School of Science and Health is located on Cleveland’s west side, just a few blocks from MetroHealth’s main campus. The 9th through 12th grade high school is a partnership with the hospital system and prepares scholars for careers in the healthcare industry.

What has been the response of students, educators, and families to the new cell phone free policy?

Brian Evans: Last year, prior to the implementation of the policy, students began sharing that it was “probably a good idea to help with focus.” Brian described little backlash from students which he credits to clear expectations and consistent execution of the policy. However, some students have pushed boundaries, attempting to circumvent the Yondr pouch functions. Thinking ahead, the team of educators and administrators created a “three strikes” discipline approach, partnering with families prior to engaging in exclusionary practices like suspension. He shared that some parents are “relieved” about the cell phone free policy, and just a few families shared they “weren’t a fan, but understood” the reasoning.

Juliet King: Juliet described the overall response as “successful,” primarily because “we know that everyone is doing this” throughout the state of Ohio. “We are all on the same playing field, which helps make it fair.” Students seem to be responding in stride, as some have even forgotten their phones altogether when leaving for the day. Teachers are responding positively to the policy as student engagement and cooperation appears to be on the rise. While some families have expressed concern about getting in touch with their students, others have been more communicative with school officials.

Read More Here

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Start with Hello Week
National Suicide Prevention Week & Month
National Attendance Awareness Month

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National Bullying Prevention Month
Safe Schools Week
Red Ribbon Week

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Local Resources
National Resources

Coach Jennie on Connecting with Students

For many, working with young people in schools is deeply rewarding, and we know that building strong, trusting connections is crucial for positive outcomes. While these bonds sometimes form naturally, there are moments when we must be more intentional in our efforts. Developing active listening skills, being authentic in our interactions, and expressing warmth and encouragement are essential for success.

As a certified trainer with the Sources of Strength suicide prevention program, I have the privilege of connecting with students across various school districts. The program encourages adults to foster relationships with students through activities that promote sharing, play, and the exploration of personal strengths. It’s inspiring to see young people become excited and engaged by spreading positive messages among their peers. Watching them share their perspectives on what helps them thrive is truly powerful. All we [adults] need to do is listen.

If you would like to learn more about Sources of Strength, click here.

Jennie Canganelli is a Student Wellness Consultant at the Educational Service Center of NE Ohio. She is a licensed school counselor and Ohio Certified Prevention Specialist. Jennie is also a regional trainer for Northeast Ohio Youth Led Prevention, a Certified QPR Suicide Prevention Instructor, and a Sources of Strength Certified Trainer and Coach for both elementary and secondary levels.