Birney is joining other schools in San Diego and across the country in this optional pledge to help protect our kids. The "Wait Until 8th" pledge is where parents agree to wait until high school to give their child a smartphone.

Research shows that smartphones can negatively impact childhood, leading to excessive screen time, addiction, academic distractions, sleep problems, behavioral disorders, strained relationships, anxiety, depression, cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, and increased risk of eating disorders.

We understand that many kids need to call or text their loved ones. That's why the pledge allows exceptions for basic phones, kid-friendly smartwatches, and tablets used for entertainment.

Note: When searching for our school in the pledge, look for "Birney Elementary" (without "Alice").