LockedIn: Created by Students, for Students

Did you know? LockedIn, the phone-management app TEA recently introduced to help students stay focused, engaged, and present throughout the school day, was developed by high school students who recognized the impact of phone distractions on their own learning.

Tomorrow, one of LockedIn's founders will join our Upper School Town Hall virtually to share the story behind the app, how it works, and why they created it.

Following Town Hall, faculty and Crew Leads will begin collecting phones from students who have not yet opted into LockedIn.

We're grateful to the families who have already embraced this new initiative! We ask all parents and caregivers to reinforce the importance of participating in LockedIn and talk with their students about the benefits of being fully present during the school day.

Together, we can help students develop healthier technology habits and create more opportunities for meaningful learning, connection, and engagement at TEA.

A New Approach to Distraction-Free Learning at TEA

Dear CommuniTEA,

At TEA, we believe students learn best when they are fully present: engaged with their peers, their teachers, and the world around them. 

To support that experience, beginning this school year, students in grades 6-12 will begin using LockedIn, a phone management app that allows students to carry their phones on campus while minimizing distractions during the school day.

We believe this approach allows us to preserve the benefits of students having access to their phones for safety while creating a learning environment where they can focus deeply, collaborate meaningfully, and fully engage in the experiences that make a TEA education distinctive.

How LockedIn Works

LockedIn is installed on a student's phone and automatically limits access to non-educational apps, such as social media and games, while students are on campus during school hours. School-approved educational apps remain fully accessible. When the school day ends or students leave campus, their phones immediately return to normal.

There are no phone pouches, lockers, or devices to collect. Students simply keep their phones with them throughout the day.

Safety and Privacy

Student safety remains our highest priority. Students can always place calls to parents, guardians, and emergency contacts if needed.

LockedIn was designed with privacy at its core. The app cannot access text messages, photos, videos, contacts, browsing history, or other personal content. It does not continuously track a student's location. Instead, it simply detects whether a student is on campus during school hours. LockedIn is fully compliant with FERPA, COPPA, and SOPIPA student privacy standards.

Student Accommodations

Students with IEPs or 504 Plans who require access to specific apps or phone-based supports can receive individualized accommodations through the Learning Support Team. Families with questions are encouraged to reach out to Brenda Gants or Katie Bloom.

Getting Started

Before the first day of school on September 1, families of students in grades 6-12 will receive instructions from their crew leaders for installing and activating LockedIn. The setup process requires a student's phone and a second device, such as a laptop or tablet, and takes only a few minutes to complete.

Thank you for your partnership!

With care and gratitude,

Jessa Brie Moreno ("Ms. J")
Head of School