SPRINGFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM) – As part of ongoing efforts to address the youth mental health crisis and support schools across Massachusetts, Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell launched a $500,000 phone-free schools support grant to help schools and educators create distraction-free learning environments.
The funding will go towards creating a more engaging learning environment including lockable phone storage and ‘device access limiting’ technology, professional development and training for staff, community engagement and education efforts, data collection and evaluation tools, and translation and accessibility support.
“Students and teachers deserve environments where the focus is on learning and building relationships – not constant notifications and distractions,” Campbell explained in a statement. “This grant will help schools implement thoughtful bell-to-bell policies that support student mental health and create stronger, more connected learning environments.”
Grant funds will be awarded in varying amounts up to $50,000, based upon the number of students enrolled in each applicant’s school or schools. The grant is anticipated to start on September 1, 2026 and the grant period will last up to two years. The A.G.’s office will prioritize applications aligned with the strategies outlined in its Cell Phone and Social Media In Schools Toolkit.
Applications must be received by 5 p.m. Friday, June 5. You can CLICK HERE for more information or to apply. Those with questions can email the A.G.’s office by 5 p.m. Friday, May 29.
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