Virginia passes statewide ban on ‘bell-to-bell’ cell phones in public schools

The Virginia Department of Education has released final guidelines for a no-cell phone, bell-to-bell policy for public elementary and secondary schools in 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.

The No Cell Phone Policy defines “bell-to-bell” as the period from the first bell at the start of the school day to the last bell at the end of the school day. This includes the time during lunch and between classes. According to the VDOE, phones should be turned off and put away during this time to ensure that students can focus on their education.

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

RELATED: Virginia Department of Education Holds First Meeting on ‘Education Without Cell Phones’

The final guideline was developed based on extensive feedback from nearly 6,000 citizens and input from more than 1,160 Virginia residents during 21 stakeholder meetings and public discussions.

The public input underscored the need for the policy, with many noting that cell phones often distract students and disrupt the learning process.

Read the Virginia Department of Education’s Mobile-Free Education Guidelines

A recent poll from The Washington Post and George Mason University’s Schar School of Policy and Government found that 69% of Virginia parents support cell phone-free education, including restrictions during lunch and recess.

Governor Youngkin emphasized the importance of the new policy in his statement, saying, “This guidance from the Virginia Department of Education is an important step toward creating a healthier learning environment where students can receive a quality education free from harmful distractions.”

The policy includes specific provisions for students with medical needs. Students who require phone-based health monitoring apps may be eligible for a medical waiver, which will be included in their Individualized Education Plan, 504 plan, or health care plan.

The guideline also addresses parental concerns about communication during school emergencies. It outlines best practices for schools to keep parents informed during both emergency and non-emergency situations, ensuring that communication remains clear and consistent.

What now?

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

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

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

School leaders will also receive an administrator toolkit to support policy implementation. $500,000 in microgrants will be made available to support these efforts.

“This guidance reflects 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, D.C.