Earlier in July, Governor Youngkin issued Executive Order #33 directing the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) to provide guidance to school divisions to establish a cell phone-free education to promote the health and safety of Virginia’s K-12 students. Read the full executive order.
The current Spotsylvania County Public Schools (SCPS) policy, included in the Student Code of Conduct, prohibits the use of personal electronic devices by students during the academic day but allows principals to allow or restrict the use of cell phones and personal electronic devices.
To ensure consistent practices for 2024-2025, all SCPS high schools will follow the cell phone guidelines listed below during the instructional school day:
During class, all students should be focused on instruction. Personal cell phone devices are to be silenced and out of sight during class periods - from tardy bell to the bell ending class. No earbuds/AirPods/headphones may be in sight during class periods as well.
If a student leaves class, perhaps to go to the restroom, they may not use their device.
Students may use their smartphone/cell phone during class change.
Students may use their smartphone/cell phone during lunchtime inside the cafeteria only.
Students may use their smartphone/cell phone after school.
The VDOE plans to share draft cell-phone-free policy guidance to school divisions on August 15, 2024. It is important to note that once a new policy is approved by the Spotsylvania County School Board, it may be necessary to modify the expectations.
We appreciate the willingness of all to support and meet these expectations.