At Bedford Middle School, we’ve made great strides with our “No Cell, Bell to Bell” policy. Still, we recognize that digital life extends far beyond our walls. Research consistently shows that constant connectivity can negatively impact students’ health, sleep, and ability to focus.

That’s why this October, we’re moving beyond basic device rules to teach an essential, lifelong skill: using technology with intention. We’re inviting our entire school community, including students, staff, and families, to take meaningful steps toward Digital Life Balance.

Voluntary Digital Wellness Challenge for Students, Staff, and Parents

Challenge Dates: October 1 to October 31, 2025

It’s easy to feel constantly tethered to technology, no matter our age. To celebrate Digital Citizenship month, BMS is leading a fun, low-stakes challenge to help our entire school community (students, staff, and parents) gain better control over our digital lives.

This challenge is entirely optional, but the benefits are real!

How It Works 

Choose Your Track (or Do Both!)

Track 1: The "Digital Discipline" Challenge for the Compulsive Checker habit - checking the phone 50+ times a day without even realizing it.

Goal: Reduce the number of times you pick up your phone daily.

 

Track 2: The "Unplugged Hours" Challenge for the Heavy User problem - hours spent mindlessly consuming content or gaming.

 

Goal: Reduce your total daily Screen Time by replacing passive scrolling with active hobbies and human interaction.

Get Your Baseline: 

Find your average Pick-Ups or Screen Time in your phone’s settings (detailed instructions linked here).

How to Find Your Challenge Data 

The first step of the Digital Reset Challenge is finding your current daily average for Screen Time and Pick-Ups. A lot of this data is built right into your phone!  

IMPORTANT: The "Beyond the Phone" Factor

This is crucial for the Unplugged Hours Challenge (Track 2):

If you are a heavy gamer or stream a lot of content on a TV, your phone may only be a small part of your overall screen time.

When you set your goal in the Google Form, please adjust your target reduction to reflect ALL screens.

• Example: Your phone says your average screen time is 4 hours, but you also game on a console for 2 hours a day or stream a few hours of a series. Your true total is 6 hours.

• Your Goal: If you want to cut 1 hour, your goal should be to reduce a combined 60 minutes across all devices (e.g., 30 minutes less phone time and 30 minutes less console time).

Set Your Goal & Submit 

Click the Google Form link to sign up and set your goal(s).

Use Our Weekly Tips: 

Look for our weekly Mindful Media Tip posted on ParentSquare. Each tip will give you a simple, practical strategy to help you meet your goal.

Submit Your Results: 

At the end of the month, return to the Google Form to submit your final data screenshot.

Why Staff and Parents Should Join

• For Staff: Experience the same challenge your students are facing. It builds empathy and gives you personal data to share when encouraging mindful use in the classroom.

• For Parents: This is the perfect tool to start a low-pressure conversation at home. Use your own reduced numbers to show your children you model the behavior you want to see.

Let's challenge ourselves to disconnect smarter so we can connect better!

If you have any questions, please email Mrs. Zatorsky at kzatorsky@westportps.org