We want to inform you of an update to our student cell phone policy, effective for the 2025-2026 school year.
In May 2025, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin signed a new law aimed at creating a "Cell Phone-Free Education" in all K-12 public schools across the state. This legislation builds on Executive Order #33 and is designed to reduce classroom distractions and support student mental health by limiting cell phone use during the school day.
Washington County Public Schools is already in compliance with most aspects of this law; thanks to the cell phone-free policy we introduced in January 2025. The only change for this year, in order to be in compliance with the law's bell-to-bell definition, is that high school students will no longer be permitted to use their phones during lunch periods.
As before, high school students may use their phones before the first bell and after dismissal. If a student needs to contact a parent or guardian during the school day, school-approved communication methods are available, and families can continue to reach students through the school office in case of emergency.
To view the proposed Washington County Public Schools Cell Phone Policy approved by School Board Members on First Reading on Monday, July 14, 2025, click here: https://go.boarddocs.com/vsba/wcps/Board.nsf/Public#
We appreciate your continued support as we work to create safe, focused, and healthy learning environments for all students.