OBSERVER Photo by Braden Carmen Pictured is a poster hanging on the wall of the school to remind students of a cell phone restriction during the school day.

Lively conversations and student engagement returned to the Fredonia Central School District over the first week of school thanks to a new policy at the district to restrict cell phones throughout the school day.

While many teachers have been in favor of the policy, as expected, the student population has responded much better than the district anticipated.

High School Principal Darrin Paschke has been “pleasantly surprised” at how well the students have responded to the district’s policy. Through the first five days of school, only six cell phones were taken during the day.

“The kids seem to be very happy,” Paschke said.

Paschke noted students have spoken to how much their focus and productivity has improved without having a cell phone as a distraction. Enthusiasm for group work in classrooms over the first five days of school has also seen a spike.

Paschke also said he received multiple emails from parents commending the district for its courage to take a stand on the issue.

The district is planning to distribute pouches to students each day to put their phones in, but over the first five days, the students have not needed them. Phones were asked to be stored in lockers, and aside from six exceptions over five days, the students have all bought in. Exceptions are given for certain classes who require the technology, such as using apps on phones to operate drones.

“I can’t thank the staff enough because they have all been very consistent,” Paschke said. “… It’s been amazing for five days.”

The other levels of the district have also reported a very positive first few days of the school.

Middle School Principal Jamie Polhamus shared with the district, via Superintendent Dr. Brad Zilliox, that students have transitioned nicely to the middle school this year, especially at the youngest level. Clubs will begin meeting at the end of the month, and athletic programs are in full swing.

Elementary Principal Mark Drollinger noted that enrollment is higher than it has been in recent years. He also noted strong participation in intramural activities.

Wheelock Principal Amy Piper called this school year the “culmination” of the district’s emphasis on safety at Wheelock. The district recently wrapped up a capital project to enhance the entryways to be more secure and installation of security cameras. The district also has made an emphasis to have fewer organizations at Wheelock with personnel going in and out of the school throughout the day. Staffing issues that led to a nurse shortage and inadequate support for students in need have also been addressed in recent months, and bussing issues have also been addressed.

Dr. Margie Wright, Chief Officer of Curriculum and Human Resources, commended the staff for its emphasis on helping new students — especially those taking English as a New Language — to acclimate to the community through field trips around the village.

“When we think about back to school … we forget that we serve all students here, and that can include students who it’s really hard to come to school and not know the language,” Wright said.

Wright also commended the district’s efforts to address homelessness concerns of its students.