Virginia is one step closer to restricting cell phone use in schools. The Virginia Department of Education released a draft of its cell phone-free guidelines on Thursday after gathering public feedback.
The draft defines cell phone-free as bell-to-bell, meaning phones must be turned off and put away from the start of the school day until the final bell, including lunchtime and breaks.
On July 9, Governor Glenn Youngkin issued an order directing the creation of these guidelines to limit students’ screen time and reduce distractions in classrooms.
Over 600 parents, teachers, and community members provided input at public events. Superintendent Lisa Coons stated that Virginians want cell phones removed from schools during the school day to help students focus on learning.
Studies show that students often use cell phones to browse the internet, use social media, and send messages during class. The draft guidelines include age-appropriate restrictions for elementary and secondary schools.
For elementary students, if a parent decides their child needs a phone, it must be kept off and stored away during the school day. Middle and high school students should not have phones available during the school day. Policies for phone use before and after school will vary by school.
Exceptions will be made for students with disabilities and English learners with language needs.
Feedback on the draft guidelines is open until September 15. School boards must adopt the final rules by January 1. Some Virginia schools have already banned or limited cell phone use.