Student wearing smart glasses uses a laptop in a classroom while other students work and a teacher presents at the whiteboard.Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) has established new guidance regarding the possession and use of AI-enabled glasses in schools. AI-enabled glasses are wearable devices that can discreetly record, process, and display information using artificial intelligence.

Under Policy 729, Cell Phone-Free Education, AI-enabled glasses meet the definition of cell phones or personal electronic communication devices and are subject to the same restrictions.

In recent months, schools nationwide have seen an increase in student use of this technology. In response, the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) and the College Board have provided guidance on how AI-enabled glasses should be managed in educational settings. PWCS is aligning with this guidance to protect student privacy and support safe, focused learning environments.

What Families and Students Should Expect

All PWCS schools will follow this guidance to ensure consistent implementation across the division:

Elementary Schools and Combination Schools (K–8, Traditional)

  • AI-enabled glasses may not be worn or used at any time during the school day.
  • Devices must be turned off and stored upon arrival at school and remain stored until dismissal.
  • Storage means the device is not worn on the face or head and is placed in a backpack, in the student’s locker, in a locked pouch, or in a designated place in the classroom.

Middle and High Schools

  • AI-enabled glasses must be turned off and stored from bell to bell.
  • Devices may only be used before the first bell and after dismissal; provided use does not violate the PWCS Code of Behavior.
  • Storage means the device is not worn on the face or head and is placed in a backpack, in the student’s locker, in a locked pouch, or in a designated place in the classroom.

Prohibited Uses (All Students)

The following uses of AI-enabled glasses are always strictly prohibited on school property, school buses, and school-sponsored events:

  • Audio, photo, or video recording of students, staff, or visitors without explicit permission.
  • Use in restrooms, locker rooms, or changing areas.
  • Livestreaming or AI-assisted analysis of people or environments.
  • AI impersonation or altered media involving students or staff.
  • Accessing or creating content that is obscene, harassing, threatening, or disruptive to a K–12 learning environment.

Transportation (All Students)

AI-enabled glasses on school buses are permitted when used in compliance with prohibited use and:

  • They do not distract the driver.
  • They do not compromise student safety.

Close-up of a person wearing smart glasses with an augmented reality info card about Santorini displayed on the lens.

Assessments

The wearing of AI-enabled glasses is always prohibited during any assessment to include daily class assessments, nationally normed external tests such as the SAT, Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate or Cambridge, and Standards of Learning (SOL) Assessments.

Enforcement and Consequences

Violations involving AI-enabled glasses will follow the same progressive discipline structure used for cell phone violations, in alignment with the PWCS Code of Behavior, including:

  • Device surrendered.
  • Parent/guardian notification and pick up.
  • Disciplinary referrals.
  • Additional disciplinary actions for repeat or severe violations.

Black smart glasses with built-in cameras on the front corners.

Exceptions:

Exceptions to the use of AI-enabled glasses are limited and considered on an individual basis. Requests are reviewed through established IEP or Section 504 processes when necessary to support a student’s documented needs.