Creating Focused Classrooms With Cell Phone Policies with David James

In this week's episode of The Language of Behavior, Josh and Charlie are joined by middle school educator and leader David James to discuss the impact of cell phones in schools and why strong, consistent policies matter. David shares how his district implemented a “way for the day” approach, why teacher support and top down consistency are essential, and how removing cell phones from the classroom has improved engagement, collaboration, and student focus.

The conversation also explores how technology has changed classroom culture, why social media continues to affect student behavior and relationships, and what teachers can do to create a more focused and productive learning environment. David closes by reflecting on the importance of structure, relationships, and shared expectations as schools prepare for a new year.

About David James

David is an 18 year veteran of K-12 education. He started his teaching journey as a graduate of Ohio University in 2007. After moving to North Carolina in the fall of 2011, David became part of the inaugural teaching staff at the award winning Harold E. Winkler Middle School, a 6-8 International Baccalaureate school located in Concord, NC, 15 miles north of Charlotte.

David currently serves in multiple teacher-leadership capacities at HWMS. As an English/Language Arts and Social Studies Teacher, Lead Mentor of the school’s highly successful beginning teacher mentoring program, School Leadership Team representative, and 7th grade level chair, David leans on his experience and enthusiasm in the classroom to influence kids, teachers, and parents in hopes of having a positive impact on student achievement.

His student-first mindset in the classroom leading to positive results both academically and behaviorally with students, has been highlighted in multiple EDU publications including Culture First Classrooms: Leadership, Relationships, and Practices That Transform Schools by Dr. Darrin Peppard and Katie Kinder.

At the state level, David serves on the North Carolina Association for Middle Level Education Board of Directors as both the Marketing and Conference Directors. He is proud to organize and bring the annual conference to life that hosts 500+ middle school educators in a celebration of learning and growth. You can learn more about NCMLE at ncmle.org and on their social media outlets.

Follow David James

Twitter (X): heroichistory22Instagram: heroichistory22Facebook: David JamesNCMLE: https://ncmle.org/

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