Statewide cellphone ban in Virginia classrooms: What parents need to know
Following Governor Youngkin’s executive order, Virginia schools will enforce a classroom cellphone ban starting next year. Here’s what parents should know.
A statewide ban on cellphones in classrooms will take effect next year. Governor Glenn Youngkin issued an executive order on Tuesday (July 9) directing the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) to implement “age-appropriate cell phone-free education” policies and procedures.
The ban focuses on mental health and safety. Youngkin’s order asks the VDOE to seek public input through listening sessions and community engagement over the next six weeks before publishing its guide. The department will also gather best practices from divisions that already have bans. Policies must be adopted by January 1.
“This essential action will promote a healthier and more focused educational environment where every child is free to learn,” Youngkin said in a news release. “Creating cell phone and social media-free educational environments in Virginia’s K-12 education system will benefit students, parents, and educators.”
Executive Order 33 cites American Psychological Association data showing American teenagers spend nearly five hours daily on social media, with more than three hours doubling the risk of poor mental health for adolescents.
Many school divisions nationwide have restricted phone use in classrooms. Virginia Beach implemented a ban two years ago, followed by Chesapeake last year. Richmond and Fairfax County have also moved toward restrictions. Some principals have reported positive results.
The governor’s office announced $500,000 for the VDOE and the Department of Behavioral Health and Development Services for community outreach and microgrants to divisions needing help with new policies.
“Too many childhoods have ended because of the wild west of addictive apps, and it is time we work together to bring childhood back,” said Health and Human Resources Secretary Janet Kelly in the news release.
There has been some early pushback from parents concerned about contacting their children. However, principals at some Hampton Roads schools reported overwhelmingly positive feedback.
Studies show cell phone use also impacts academic achievement. The order states, “the issue extends beyond mere distraction; substantial phone and social media use can have a cumulative, lasting and detrimental impact on adolescents’ ability to focus and engage in their studies.”
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