PHILOSOPHY & FORMATION
Technology Commitment Statement
How we approach screens, devices, and digital life as a school community devoted to classical Christian formation.
Our Philosophy of Technology
We believe that technology—computers, phones, the internet, and social media—is a powerful tool that must be used with wisdom, limits, and purpose. As Christians, we are called to guard our hearts and minds, not to be taken captive by our devices.
"Take every thought captive to obey Christ."
— 2 Corinthians 10:5
Modern research, including Jonathan Haidt's The Anxious Generation, has shown what many parents and pastors already sense:
When children and teens spend countless unsupervised hours online, especially on social media…
When screens replace face-to-face relationships, physical activity, and worship…
When smartphones become constant companions from morning to night…
…they are at significantly greater risk for anxiety, depression, social withdrawal, addictive behaviors, distorted self-image, and exposure to harmful content. These harms are not only mental and emotional; they are also moral and spiritual, dulling the appetite for prayer, Scripture, hard thinking, and real friendship.
As a school devoted to classical Christian formation, we refuse to ignore these realities. We desire a community where students are present to God and to one another, able to think deeply and relate personally—without being constantly pulled away by screens.
Our Commitments at School
At school, technology will be used sparingly, intentionally, and under authority— never as entertainment and never as a replacement for real thinking.
Primary Tools: Books, Discussion, and Writing
Our core tools of learning will be Scripture, great books, thoughtful discussion, and sustained writing. Devices may assist these pursuits, but they will not define them.
Limited, Purposeful Use of Computers
We will use computers and tablets only when they clearly enhance learning, such as:
- Research under teacher guidance
- Writing, editing, and submitting assignments
- Occasional use of specialized software (e.g., language, math, or science)
Guardrails on Internet and Devices
- Internet access at school will be filtered and monitored.
- Personal phones and devices will be off and put away during the school day.
- Social media use during the school day will not be permitted.
Cultivating Attention and Presence
We will regularly speak with students about:
- The virtue of attention—learning to focus without constant interruption
- Loving the people in front of us more than images on a screen
- The importance of silence, reading, and contemplation
A Partnership with Parents: Technology at Home
The habits students bring from home profoundly shape their hearts and their ability to benefit from a classical Christian education. We therefore ask parents to join us in a balanced, intentional approach to technology outside of school.
In light of the concerns summarized in The Anxious Generation and similar research, we ask parents to:
Delay and Limit Social Media
Strongly consider:
- Delaying social media accounts until your child is more mature
- Limiting or supervising their use, especially in the evening and at night
Establish Boundaries for Devices
- Keep smartphones, tablets, and computers out of bedrooms at night
- Set clear time limits for entertainment screen use
- Use filters and parental controls as needed, but also focus on coaching the heart
Prioritize Real Life over Screen Life
Encourage your children to:
- Spend time in family conversation, shared meals, church, and physical activity
- Build face-to-face friendships and participate in real-world hobbies
- Read real books, practice instruments, and engage in creative projects
Guard Against Lazy Thinking and Inappropriate Behavior
Talk openly with your children about:
- The temptation to let algorithms and endless scrolling replace thoughtful reflection
- The dangers of pornography, bullying, gossip, and coarse speech online
- The importance of honoring Christ in what they view, post, and “like”