Gilbert Public Schools Weighs Pros and Cons of School Cell Phone Ban

The debate over cell phone use in schools has gained momentum following a distressing incident where a student brought a gun onto campus, leading to a lockdown. Jenea Phillips shared her daughter's harrowing experience during the lockdown, highlighting the comfort and security her daughter felt from being able to communicate with her via cell phone.

This personal testimony was presented to the Gilbert Public Schools Governing Board amidst discussions on crafting a policy to regulate cell phone usage among students. Educators and mental health advocates voiced their concerns, pointing to studies indicating that excessive cell phone use can detract from students' cognitive development and test performance.

Thara Tenney, an English teacher, emphasized the detrimental impact of screen distraction on learning, advocating for policies that empower teachers to dictate classroom technology use.

Katey McPherson, a youth mental health advocate, reflected on the drastic changes in student behavior and mental health since the introduction of smartphones, advocating for restrictions on cell phone use to encourage face-to-face interaction and improve conflict resolution skills.

The discussion also touched on the role of cell phones during emergency situations, with contrasting views on their effectiveness. As the board considers new policies, the community remains divided on the best approach to balance the benefits of connectivity with the need for focused learning environments and mental well-being.

Give Blood and Get Rewarded: Join HD South's Blood Drive with the American Red Cross

HD South, in partnership with the American Red Cross, is hosting a blood drive to support the community's health needs. This event, taking place on March 6 at HD South's Neely Community Room, aligns with Red Cross Month's goal of encouraging vital blood donations.

To reward donors, the American Red Cross is offering a $10 e-gift card to a pet supply merchant for those who donate from March 1-24, 2024. Additionally, donors will be entered into a giveaway for a chance to win one of five $3,000 gift cards.

While donors under 18 are ineligible for the giveaway, they can still receive the e-gift card, promoting participation across all ages. This initiative highlights the importance of community involvement in addressing critical healthcare needs.

Schedule a Donation

East Valley Experts Weigh In on Social Media's Role in Teen Violence

Two Arizona women, deeply engaged in the conversations around the impact of social media on teenagers, are bringing their experiences and expertise to the forefront amidst rising concerns over teen violence in the East Valley.

Their insights come at a time when incidents involving the so-called “Gilbert Goons” and the malicious use of social media have raised alarms about the psychological and emotional effects of digital platforms on young minds.

Kristin Bride, a Mesa resident and a mother who tragically lost her son Carson to suicide following relentless cyberbullying, emphasizes the detrimental impact of excessive screen time and social media on the development of meaningful human relationships.

She observes a stark difference in the interpersonal skills of Generation Z, attributing these shortcomings to the early and pervasive exposure to digital screens. Bride advocates for a reevaluation of how social interactions are fostered among youth, stressing the importance of face-to-face communication.

Elizabeth Anthony, an associate professor at Arizona State University, points out that while not all screen time is inherently harmful, parental involvement and modeling positive online behavior are crucial in guiding young individuals towards beneficial digital engagements.

Anthony and Bride's perspectives align on the need for a nuanced approach to understanding and addressing the complexities of youth violence in the context of affluent communities like Gilbert. They highlight the various risk factors that can contribute to such behaviors, including family dynamics and societal pressures.

Anthony suggests that community-based initiatives and family counseling can play significant roles in mitigating the risk of youth violence. Meanwhile, Bride calls for more responsible and supervised use of social media among teenagers, advocating for the delay of smartphone and social media exposure until a more mature age.

As the East Valley grapples with the challenges posed by teen violence and the pervasive influence of social media, the insights from Bride and Anthony offer valuable perspectives on fostering healthier digital environments and promoting emotional resilience among young people.

Beyond the Garage Door: Anozira Door Systems' Commitment to Arizona Communities

Nestled in the dynamic landscape of Arizona's Valley of the Sun, Anozira Door Systems has established itself as a beacon of excellence in the realm of garage door services. Founded in 1986 by the visionary team of professionals with deep roots in the community, this Tempe and Tucson-based company has dedicated itself to providing top-tier garage door installation and repair services to residential and commercial clients alike.

A Legacy of Quality and Dedication

The story of Anozira Door Systems is one of passion, resilience, and unwavering commitment to quality. It all began with a simple yet powerful vision: to offer unparalleled garage door services that combine expert craftsmanship with affordability. Over the years, Anozira Door Systems has grown from a modest venture into a trusted name in the Valley, driven by a mission to exceed client expectations at every turn.

Expertise That Sets the Standard

At the heart of Anozira Door Systems' success is its team of skilled professionals, each bringing years of experience and a meticulous attention to detail to the table. From standard garage doors to custom creations, the team at Anozira is adept at tackling any project, regardless of its complexity. Their expertise in the latest techniques and products ensures that every installation and repair is executed with precision and care.

A Commitment to Customer Satisfaction

Anozira Door Systems stands out not only for its technical proficiency but also for its unwavering dedication to customer service. Understanding the importance of timely and reliable service, the company prides itself on its ability to respond to clients' needs efficiently, offering 24/7 emergency repair services and standing behind their work with a robust warranty. Their competitive pricing and transparent quotes underscore their commitment to making quality garage door services accessible to all.

Serving the Community with Pride

Serving a wide range of areas within Maricopa, Pinal, Pima, Yavapai, and Coconino counties, Anozira Door Systems has become a staple of the local community. From Tucson to Tempe, Phoenix to Gilbert, and beyond, their impact is felt in the countless homes and businesses that benefit from their services. As they continue to expand their reach, their mission remains steadfast: to be the garage door service provider of choice for the Valley of the Sun.

A Testament to Excellence

The reputation of Anozira Door Systems is built on a foundation of stellar reviews and testimonials from satisfied clients. Their dedication to excellence in both workmanship and customer care has earned them a loyal customer base and a place among the most trusted garage door companies in the region.

More Info: https://www.anoziradoorsystems.net/

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