Prince William County Public Schools

Wireless Communication Device Usage Pilot Program

Participating Schools

The program will start in 33 schools for the 2024-25 school year.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The guidelines aim 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.

Why is there a need for these guidelines?

The cell phone and wireless device pilot 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.

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

The guidelines will be introduced and implemented for the 2024-25 school year at 33 PWCS schools. See the list of schools above.

What are the goals of the PWCS pilot?

• Promote face-to-face social interactions and connections.
• Create a distraction-free learning environment by minimizing social media-related disruptions.
• Encourage students to be more present and engaged during the school day.

What are the guidelines for students at middle, traditional, and K-8 schools regarding wireless communication devices?

• All functions within wireless communication devices including earbuds (such as AirPods), must be silenced and devices stored away during the school day.
• Dual-purpose watches (such as an Apple Watch) may be worn, but wireless/cellular features must be turned off (e.g., placed in airplane mode).

What rules apply to high school students regarding wireless communication devices?

• Wireless communication devices, including earbuds (such as AirPods), must be silenced and devices stored away during all instructional periods.
• Dual-purpose watches are allowed, but wireless/cellular features must be turned off during instructional times (e.g., in airplane mode).
• During lunchtimes and passing times, students may use wireless communication devices and one earbud. However, their use is prohibited in restrooms and locker rooms.

What is the process for acknowledging acceptance of the wireless communication devices guidelines?

Students and families/guardians will receive the cell phone and wireless communication devices guidelines at the beginning of the school year via email and text message from the school and must read the notice. A student and/or parent’s failure to read the guidelines does not exempt a student from the responsibility to follow these guidelines.

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.

Are there exception 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. Exceptions may also be granted as part of a student’s safety or other support plan.

How are privacy and respect emphasized with these wireless communication device guidelines?

Respecting the privacy of others is emphasized; taking photos 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

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

Parents/guardians should not contact their student on their personal device during school hours. Urgent messages should be directed to the school office, which will facilitate 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.

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

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

The following actions will be taken if a student violates PWCS’ cell phone guidelines. Failure to adhere to the terms of the cell phone guidelines will result in the following progressive discipline:

• First Offense – The student will surrender the wireless communication device, and it will be returned to the student at the end of the class period. The student will sign the Acknowledgment of Further Consequences Form. The teacher/staff member will document this offense in The Hub.
• 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 Hub and the parent will have to retrieve the device. The teacher/staff member will document this offense in The Hub.
• 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 a 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.

Any disciplinary infraction that a student commits arising from the staff or school administration’s attempt to enforce the cell phone guidelines shall result in disciplinary consequences determined by the Code of Behavior and Tiers of Response.

Who is responsible for adhering to these guidelines and securing personal belongings?

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

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. This pilot program was developed in advance of the order. PWCS will review all guidance from the VDOE and family feedback on the pilot program before finalizing cell phone use guidelines.

Does this pilot include elementary schools?

Currently, only elementary-aged students attending The Nokesville School, Pennington Traditional, and Porter Traditional are included in the PWCS pilot. However, depending on the Governor's cell phone model policy, which will be released in September 2024, additional elementary schools may be added. Individual elementary schools will continue to have their own cell phone guidelines.