Creative Engagement Without Cell Phones: Classroom Innovation in the Post-Phone Era

December Break 2025 – December 29^th-January 2, 2025

Instructor: Gayle Meinkes-Lumia – gaylelumia@yahoo.com

With New York State’s new legislation restricting student phone use, educators are faced with a unique opportunity: reimagining classroom engagement without the distractions of screens.  Students require a hands-on environment that empowers them, one that is teeming with innovative, practical strategies that spark curiosity and boost participation—no phone required. In this energizing class, participants will explore and create lesson activities using tactile, movement-based, and collaborative approaches that refocus student attention and foster genuine connections. Teachers will discover how to turn everyday classroom moments into powerful, tech-free learning experiences. Some topics included are:

• Gallery Walks & Learning Stationsthat get students moving and talking
• Mystery Envelopes & Story Cubesfor low-prep, high-engagement prompts
• Interactive Notebook Challengesto deepen reflection and retention
• Analog Escape Roomsthat promote critical thinking and teamwork
• Gamified Reviewsusing whiteboards, cards, or dice—not devices

Whether you’re a veteran teacher or new to the classroom, this class offers fresh tools and an inspiring mindset shift. Teachers will have a toolkit full of adaptable, ready-to-use activities and the confidence to make their classrooms thrive.

*A Must for K-12 Educators