“In today’s digital landscape, data overwhelmingly shows that screen time has a direct impact on our kids’ mental health. Smartphones and social media use have been shown to create distractions, contribute to depression and anxiety, increase cyberbullying, and lead to lower academic outcomes,” Hoover said. “It’s become clear that we need to provide students with distraction free learning environments and create more outdoor learning opportunities to support their mental health and help them improve social connection with their peers.”

