A spike in teen depression and anxiety in recent years has some central Illinois school leaders rethinking the prominent presence of technology in classrooms.

According to Bement Schools Superintendent Mary Vogt, there is a distinct breakdown in how technology is defined and monitored within her district.

The challenge for school administration often lies in where these issues originate. When conflicts arise via social media or student devices, Vogt explains, it is rarely a problem confined to school hours or the school building.

To combat the misuse of technology, Bement Schools is focusing on teaching students how to use digital resources as an educational tool, such as for research and keyboarding skills, rather than for entertainment. Vogt points out that this requires a concerted partnership between parents and the school to ensure students are focused on assignments during the day.

Several local districts are using the case provided in the book 'The Anxious Generation' by Jonathan Haidt as a guide in understanding the increase in anxiety and depression among teens and pre-teens.