Cell Phone-Free Education Information

Prince William County Public Schools’ (PWCS) cell phone-free education policy aims to enhance student engagement and participation in classroom activities by removing a major distraction in the classroom – cell phones.

Elementary and Combination (K-8 and Traditional) School Grade Students

• All cell phones and personal electronic communication devices must be turned off and stored away and may not be used at any time within the school building or on school grounds or during any instructional periods, regardless of location, including field trips.
• Dual-purpose watches may be worn at school, but wireless/cellular features must be turned off during the school day (e.g., must be placed in airplane mode).
• Students are permitted to use their cell phones and personal electronic communication devices(s) while on school buses, while in parent/guardian vehicles, and before they enter or after they exit school grounds.
• Cell phones and wireless communication devices may be used on school buses provided the device does not distract the driver, compromise safety, or violate the Prohibited Content and Use for All Students provisions detailed below.

Middle and High School Grade Students

• All cell phones and personal electronic communication devices must be turned off and stored away during the bell-to-bell school day and during any instructional periods, regardless of location, including field trips.
• Dual-purpose watches are allowed, but wireless/cellular features must be turned off during instructional times (e.g., must be in airplane mode).
• All cell phones and personal electronic communication devices may be turned on and used within the school and on the school campus before or after the bell-to-bell school day.
• Cell phones and wireless communication devices may be used on school buses provided the device does not distract the driver, compromise safety, or violate the Prohibited Content and Use for All Students provisions detailed below.

Prohibited Content and Use for All Students

Students are not allowed to create, access, or share content that is incompatible with a K-12 educational environment while on school property, including school buses, or at school-sponsored events, regardless of location. Examples include, but are not limited to:

• Content that is obscene, contains profanity, or involves or threatens illegal acts.
• Content that bullies, harasses, threatens, or degrades others is strictly prohibited, including the use of artificial intelligence to impersonate others.
• Videotaping misconduct is strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary actions.
• Use of cell phones and wireless communication devices in restrooms or locker rooms is strictly prohibited. Photographing or videotaping other students in a state of undress in these or other areas of the school will result in discipline and may result in a referral to law enforcement.
• Use of cell phones and wireless communication devices to cheat or in ways that violate the school division’s acceptable use policy.

Is PWCS following the Governor’s executive order to establish cell phone-free K-12 education?

On July 9, 2024, Governor Glenn Youngkin issued Executive Order 33 to establish cell phone-free education to promote the health and safety of Virginia’s K-12 students. Executive Order 33 directs the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) to provide guidance to school boards on cell phone-free education policies and procedures. The Prince William County School Board reviewed all guidance from the VDOE, and developed and approved Policy 729, “Cell Phone-Free Education,” which was approved by the Prince William County School Board.

Why is there a need for this policy?

On July 9, 2024, Governor Glenn Youngkin issued Executive Order 33 to establish cell phone-free education to promote the health and safety of Virginia’s K-12 students. Executive Order 33 directs the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) to provide guidance to school boards on cell phone-free education policies and procedures. The PWCS cell phone and wireless device policy intends to support students in their academic success by removing a major distraction. Cell phones on desks, in pockets, or in backpacks can be tempting distractions, even for conscientious students. Studies suggest that it can take up to 10 minutes for the brain to reengage after responding to cell phone distractions.

What is the purpose of the PWCS cell phone and wireless communication device usage policy?

The policy aims to create an environment where focused learning thrives, interpersonal connections prosper, and safety and privacy are prioritized. By limiting distractions, promoting engaged classrooms, and encouraging appropriate technology use, schools can foster academic excellence and personal growth.

What is the policy for elementary, K-8 and traditional schools regarding wireless communication devices?

All cell phones and personal electronic communication devices must be turned off and stored away and may not be used at any time within the school building or on school grounds or during any instructional periods regardless of location – including field trips.

What is the policy for middle and high schools regarding wireless communication devices?

All cell phones and personal electronic communication devices must be turned off and stored away during the bell-to-bell school day and during any instructional periods, regardless of location – including field trips.

Cell phones and personal electronic communication devices may be turned on and used within the school and on the school campus before or after the bell-to-bell school day.

What is the definition of “stored”?

Device not being carried on the student’s person, including not being kept in the student’s pocket. Storage options include the student’s backpack, in the student’s locker, or in a designated place in the classroom.

What is the definition of “bell-to-bell”?

From when the first bell rings at the start of the school day to begin instructional time until the dismissal bell rings at the end of the academic school day, including lunch and time in between class periods. Students may use a phone in the school office to contact a parent/guardian during the bell-to-bell school day, should a need arise.

When will the PWCS cell phone and wireless communication device policy be implemented?

The policy will be implemented for the 2025-26 school year in all PWCS schools.

Can students use their cell phones during lunch or hall exchanges?

No, the policy requires that cell phones remain off and stored away for the entire school day, including lunch and hallway exchanges. This ensures that students remain engaged in their activities and interactions throughout the day.

Are students allowed to use their cell phones on the school bus?

Yes. Wireless communication devices may be used on school buses provided that the device does not distract the driver, compromise safety, violate other school bus rules and regulations, and/or violate prohibited conduct identified in the Code of Behavior.

When students and staff are at the destination of their field trip, can phones be used?

The organizer of the field trip can establish if phones are allowed for instructional purposes.

Can parents/guardians contact their student(s) directly on their personal device during the school day?

Parents/guardians should not contact their student(s) on their personal device during school hours. Urgent messages that are non-emergencies but still a priority should be directed to the school office, which will facilitate communication.

What is considered a non-emergency non-priority message to my student?

Information that can wait until after school hours, that does not require immediate attention and is not critical to the student’s well-being or academic performance. Examples include but are not limited to:

• Social plans
• Household reminders such as dinner choices, chores, or errands
• Non-urgent family matters that can be postponed

What is considered an urgent message that is not an emergency but still takes priority?

An urgent message is not an emergency, but the event is significant enough to necessitate immediate attention and priority. Examples include but are not limited to:

• Information about an upcoming appointment
• Arrangements for students to leave school early
• Change of family plans
• Transportation changes or delays
• Adjustment to extracurricular commitments that require parental communication

What provisions are in place for emergencies?

• Students can use a phone in the main office to contact a parent/guardian during the school day if needed.
• In reunification situations following an emergency, staff will provide direction on using personal devices.
• School-based staff supervising students will have access to a cell phone or classroom phone for emergencies.
• Division and school leaders will publicly share emergency communication protocols and processes, including training and reunification plans with families.

What can a parent/guardian do in case of a family emergency?

In case of a family emergency, the parent/guardian should immediately call the front office, provide all relevant information, including their contact details, the student’s name and class, and the specifics of the emergency. This helps school staff assess the situation and take appropriate measures.

What is considered a family emergency?

A family emergency is an urgent situation involving the student’s family that necessitates immediate contact. Examples include but are not limited to:

• Serious illness or injury of a family member – hospitalization or critical condition.
• Death of a family member – requiring the student’s presence for support and arrangements.
• Unexpected family crises – such as house fire or other significant events impacting the family.

What are the consequences if students do not follow the policy?

Students who disrupt the school’s educational environment by using wireless communication devices inappropriately (e.g., cheating, bullying, harassment, unlawful recording, violating behavior expectations) will be subject to disciplinary actions.

The following actions will be taken if a student violates PWCS Policy 729, “Cell Phone-Free Education.” Failure to adhere to the terms of the policy will result in the following progressive discipline:

• First Offense – The student will surrender the wireless communication device, the device will be locked in the main office, and it will be returned to the student at the end of the school day. The student will sign the Acknowledgment of Further Consequences Form. The teacher/staff member will document this offense in the Student Information System.
• Second Offense – The student will surrender the wireless communication device, the device will be locked in the main office, and the device will be returned to the student at the end of the school day. The student will receive a second warning, and the teacher/staff member will notify the parent/guardian via SchoolStatus. The parent will be informed that the next offense (third offense) will result in a disciplinary incident in the Student Information System and the parent will have to retrieve the device. The teacher/staff member will document this offense in the Student Information System.
• Third Offense – The student will surrender the wireless communication device, the device will be locked in the main office, and a referral will be generated documenting the violation of the cell phone guidelines. The student will complete a Healthy Cell Phone Use Canvas Module during lunch detention, after-school detention, restorative reflection, or Saturday school. The parent/guardian must retrieve the device from the school office and sign the Acknowledgment of Further Consequences Form.
• Infractions are cumulative.

What discipline is given after a third offense?

The student will receive additional discipline referrals if they continue to have infractions beyond the third offense. The consequences may include additional after school detentions, Saturday School, and in-school suspension. The school may issue a cell phone contract where the student drops off the phone in the main office and picks it up at the end of the day for a period of time or other measures determined by the school.

What happens if students do not comply with staff directives regarding wireless communication devices?

Any disciplinary infraction that a student commits arising from the staff or school administration’s attempt to enforce the policy shall result in disciplinary consequences determined by the Code of Behavior and tiers of response.

What is the definition of “cumulative”?

Repeated violations are aggregated over the school year. The policy applies in all areas of the school (e.g., classrooms, hallways, bathrooms, cafeteria) and infractions continue for the entire school year. It does not reset every quarter or semester.

What is the process for acknowledging acceptance of the Cell Phone-Free Education Policy?

Students and parents/guardians will receive notice of the provisions of the Cell Phone-Free Education policy at the beginning of the school year and must read the notice. A student and/or parent/guardian’s failure to read the Cell Phone-Free Education notice does not exempt a student from the responsibility to follow these rules. Parents/guardians acknowledge the Cell Phone-Free Education Policy in the Annual Back to School Packet.

What happens if a parent refuses to have their student follow the policy?

All students must follow the PWCS policy and the Code of Behavior regardless of the personal preference of their parent/guardian.

What are the hours that a student’s cell phone can be picked up from the front office?

Between 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. for elementary, K-8, and traditional schools.

Between 7:30 am - 4 p.m. for middle schools.

Between 7 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. for high schools

How can parents support this policy?

Parents can support the policy by discussing its importance with their student and encouraging them to comply. It’s helpful to reinforce the idea that this policy is intended to benefit your student’s education and social development. Parents can also ensure that their student knows the alternative ways to contact them if needed, such as through the school office. Parents can also try approaches such as limiting time on their personal devices and setting parental controls to limit usage.

How will this policy affect students’ social interactions?

The policy aims to improve face-to-face interactions among students, fostering stronger social connections and communication skills. By reducing reliance on cell phones, students are encouraged to engage more meaningfully with their peers and teachers.

Are there resources available to help students adjust to the policy?

Yes, the school will provide resources and support to help students adjust to the policy. This includes counseling services, educational materials, and guidance from teachers and staff. The goal is to ensure a smooth transition and help students understand the benefits of the policy.

How are privacy and respect reinforced with the policy?

Respecting the privacy of others is emphasized; taking photos, audio recording, or videos of classmates, peers, and staff without permission is strictly prohibited on school property or while involved in school-related activities without prior approval.

Videotaping misconduct is strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary actions. This includes unlawful use of cell phones in restrooms, locker rooms, or school buses.

Using, producing, distributing, or receiving profanity, obscenity, or material that bullies, harasses, offends, threatens, or degrades others is strictly prohibited including the use of artificial intelligence to impersonate others.

How does the policy address digital literacy and responsible technology use?

The policy encourages responsible technology use by teaching students the importance of managing distractions and using digital devices appropriately. It complements the division’s efforts to promote digital literacy and prepare students for a technology-driven world.

Can students use their personal laptop and/or iPad during the school day?

All students are issued PWCS laptops/iPads and will be unable to utilize personal laptops/tablets during the bell-to-bell school day.

Why can’t students use their personal laptop and/or iPad during the school day?

Student personal devices cannot be managed or monitored by PWCS’ Information and Instructional Technology Department or the teacher in the classroom. Allowing any personal devices for students will provide a loophole for students to circumvent School Board policies for cell phone and acceptable use and will make effective enforcement difficult for administrators and teachers. Student devices can easily become sources of entertainment, leading students to engage in activities unrelated to their studies, such as social media, gaming, and browsing the internet. Personal texting apps can also be used on a personal device enabling texting during class and the school day, circumventing School Board policy. Students may be able to access the internet without filtering on their personal device, and this could allow access during class to inappropriate images, content, or other disruptive materials or unapproved technology.

Can students use headphones/earbuds during the school day?

Students may not use personal headphones/earbuds during the bell-to-bell school day. PWCS will provide headphones if they are needed as part of a required assignment during class.

How can we ensure that smartwatches are used exclusively for timekeeping?

There is no guarantee; however, if students are seen texting, talking, or recording using the watch, then the watch will be surrendered.

Who is responsible for adhering to the policy and securing personal belongings?

It is each student’s responsibility to follow the policy and ensure the security of their wireless communication devices. Classes and instruction will not be interrupted to search for lost devices.

What if my student’s cell phone is stolen while it is stored away for the day in their bag or locker?

Students assume the risk of damage, theft, or loss when choosing to bring a phone or wireless communication device to school.

What happens if teachers do not enforce the policy in their classroom?

All teachers must follow all PWCS policies and regulations as part of their professionalism standards and expectations.

What happens if a student needs to use software for a class and it is not on their iPad or laptop?

If there is a need identified by school staff, submission of software approval purchases, such as for CTE or Specialty Programs, can be completed by school-based Instructional Technology Coaches, principals, central office directors, and supervisors using the PWCS Software Application Form. All submissions must have an Application Service Provider Security Standards form completed for review by the IT Governance Committee.

Are there exceptions for students with medical conditions or IEP/504 plans?

Exceptions to these guidelines may be granted as disability accommodations through Section 504 plans or IEPs when necessary to ensure student access to school and school-sponsored activities determined by the IEP or 504 team. Exceptions may also be granted as part of a student’s safety or other support plan.

School-issued devices and assistive technology devices should first be used to meet the technological needs of a student with a disability.

• Examples:
  • Organizational Skills: a picture of the board can be taken with a school-issued device and does not require a student’s personal phone or smart watch.
  • Anxiety: Need to call a parent; go to the office or counselor to make the call.
• Teams are required to address if an accommodation is required to provide FAPE or access to the general education curriculum
  • Parents may request that phones, watches, GPS trackers stay on and stored away rather than off and stored away.
  • Having a GPS tracking device on a student that is tracked by the parent and not the school is not considered a student accommodation.
• Medical issues may be considered exceptions by an IEP or 504 team:
  • Independent student medical tracking and monitoring
    • Example: blood sugar for diabetes and heart rate for other conditions
  • Cochlear Implant audio adjustments

Will students have a cell phone pass or card to show to staff if they are allowed to have their cell phones?

Yes, students will have a way to signal that they are permitted to use their cell phone as a result of an accommodation in their IEP or Section 504 plan that could not otherwise be implemented with other available technology.