Virginia imposes statewide “bell-to-bell” cell phone ban in public schools

The Virginia Department of Education has released its final guidelines on a blanket cell phone ban policy for K-12 public schools across the state in response to Governor Glenn Youngkin's Executive Order 33.

This new policy is intended to minimize distractions and create a better learning environment for students by limiting cell phone use during the school day.

Cell phone-free time defines “bell-to-bell” as the time from the first ring at the beginning of the school day to the last ring at the end of school. This includes the time during lunch and between classes. According to VDOE, cell phones must be turned off and put away during this time so that students can concentrate on their lessons.

“We are so grateful for the collaboration of families, educators and students on such an important challenge for our young people,” said Lisa Coons, Superintendent of Public Education. “The citizens of Virginia helped shape the final guidelines and we look forward to continuing our work with families and educators to ensure every student can enjoy a cellphone-free education.”

RELATED: Virginia Department of Education hosts first Cellphone-Free Education Summit

The final guidance was based on extensive feedback from nearly 6,000 public comments and input from more than 1,160 Virginians during 21 stakeholder meetings and public conversations.

The response from the public underlined the need for this regulation. Many pointed out that mobile phones often distract students and interfere with the learning process.

Read the Virginia Department of Education's guidelines for cellphone-free education

A recent poll by the Washington Post and George Mason University's Schar School of Policy and Government found that 69% of parents in Virginia support cellphone-free classrooms, including restrictions during lunch and recess.

Governor Youngkin emphasized the importance of the new policy in his statement, saying, “This policy from the Virginia Department of Education is an important step toward creating a healthier learning environment where students can receive a quality education without harmful distractions.”

The policy includes special provisions for students with medical needs. Students who require phone-based health monitoring apps may be eligible for a medical exemption that will be included in their individual education plan, 504 plan, or health plan.

The guidelines also address parents' concerns about communication during school emergencies. They describe best practices for schools to keep parents informed during both emergency and other situations and to ensure that communication remains clear and consistent.

What happens next?

Governor Youngkin has directed several state agencies, including the Department of Education and the Virginia Center for School and Campus Safety, to help school districts improve their emergency communications plans.

School divisions are expected to review and, if necessary, update their cell phone policies to align with state guidelines by January 1, 2025. Schools are also encouraged to consider additional measures beyond the basic requirements.

To further raise awareness about the impact of cell phones and social media on mental health, First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin and psychologist Dr. Jonathan Haidt will host a national discussion on September 19 to discuss the importance of the cell phone-free society initiative and strategies for families.

School leaders will also receive an administrator toolkit to assist them in implementing the policies. $500,000 in microgrants will be made available to support these efforts.

“These guidelines reflect our commitment to creating a safer and more focused learning environment for all students,” said Governor Youngkin.

The source

Information for this story was provided by the Virginia Department of Education. This story was reported from Washington, DC.