
Reclaiming Focus: Addressing Student Attention Fragmentation in the Post-Phone Era
January 29, 2026
9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Cost: $175 CASDA member districts/$225 non-member districts
UAlbany ETEC Building, Room 303, Albany
CTLE: 5 hours
Facilitator: Alyssa Sabbatino, NBCT
Educators everywhere are noticing a growing challenge: fragmented attention, shortened focus, and restless classrooms - especially in the wake of new phone-free policies. This one-day institute helps participants understand the neuroscience and social-emotional roots of attention fragmentation and explore research-based strategies to rebuild students’ capacity for sustained focus, self-regulation, and deep learning.
Grounded in the latest work on cognitive load, executive functioning, and adolescent engagement, this session blends science, systems, and strategy. Participants will leave with practical Tier 1 interventions, planning tools, and communication strategies to strengthen focus, belonging, and motivation in their classrooms and schools.
Learning goals:
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Understand the neurological and behavioral factors contributing to attention fragmentation.
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Identify the impact of constant stimulation, digital habits, and multitasking on learning and SEL.
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Apply Tier 1 strategies that rebuild attention, stamina, and focus in the classroom.
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Develop schoolwide systems that sustain focus and well-being in phone-free environments.





