Spokane Public Schools’ Initiative to Encourage Screen-Free Student Engagement
In an era where social media dominates, Spokane Public Schools (SPS) is taking a groundbreaking approach to student engagement. The district’s transformative initiative, Engage IRL (Engage in Real Life), is reshaping the way students connect beyond their screens. With over 300 clubs and sports to choose from, SPS students are experiencing a newfound sense of happiness, health, and community.
An Innovative Approach to Student Engagement
SPS recognized a decline in student engagement, particularly in attendance rates, as a result of the negative impacts of excessive screen time on mental health. To combat this trend, district leaders spearheaded Engage IRL, aiming to foster meaningful connections between students through extracurricular activities. By focusing on getting kids engaged with each other in real-life experiences, SPS is revolutionizing the traditional approach to student engagement.
Ryan Lancaster, the executive director of communications for SPS, highlighted the district’s shift in perspective: “Our intent was to get every kid, every day, involved in something positive outside the school day and extend that community learning past the classroom.” Through collaborative efforts with parents, community members, and educators, SPS has successfully revitalized student engagement by prioritizing students’ diverse interests and hobbies.
Cultivating Opportunities for All Students
Central to the success of Engage IRL is its commitment to equity and inclusion. By implementing a no-cut policy in athletics and partnering with organizations like Special Olympics, SPS ensures that every child, regardless of ability or background, has access to enriching extracurricular experiences. The district’s engagement navigators play a crucial role in connecting English language learners and students with disabilities to activities that promote social connections and personal growth.
Nikki Otero Lockwood, the SPS board president, shared a personal story about her daughter with autism, emphasizing the transformative impact of Engage IRL: “There are barriers to finding community for some kids. This is something we have the power to do that will have a lasting impact on the children we serve.” By prioritizing inclusivity and support for all students, SPS is fostering a sense of belonging and connection that transcends traditional academic boundaries.
Measuring Success: Attendance and Wellness
Since the launch of Engage IRL, Spokane Public Schools has witnessed a remarkable increase in student engagement and attendance rates. Stephanie Splater, the executive director of athletics and activities for SPS, emphasized the positive outcomes of the initiative: “We’ve had a really great start to the 2024-2025 school year, and Engage IRL has played a huge role.” By providing students with diverse opportunities for involvement and connection, SPS has created a vibrant and supportive community where every child can thrive.
As SPS continues to prioritize student well-being and engagement, the district’s commitment to fostering face-to-face connections and real-life experiences remains unwavering. Through Engage IRL, Spokane Public Schools is setting a new standard for student engagement, one that prioritizes holistic development, inclusivity, and community collaboration.
