Virginia Governor Bans Cell Phone Use in Schools to Improve Mental Health

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has issued an executive order to restrict or ban cell phone use in public schools. The directive aims to address mental health issues and academic underachievement among adolescents, with measures to be implemented by January 2025. The policy echoes similar initiatives in other U.S. school districts.

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has taken a decisive step to curb cell phone use in public schools, issuing an executive order aimed at improving student mental health and academic performance. The order, announced Tuesday, tasks the Virginia Department of Education with developing procedures to restrict cell phone use during instructional time, proposing methods such as pouches or dedicated lockers. Exceptions will be made for essential parent-child communications, medical needs, and emergency situations.

This move mirrors similar actions taken by the Los Angeles Unified School District and proposals from New York City's Public Schools chancellor. Smaller school districts have also begun limiting cell phone access, citing concerns over the devices' impact on students' learning and mental well-being.

According to the order, the Virginia Department of Education has until September 16 to finalize guidance on the new policy, which will be implemented by January 1, 2025. "Creating a cell phone-free education environment in public schools is not only a prudent measure but an essential one to promote a healthier and more focused educational environment where every child is free to learn," Youngkin stated. The order references studies from the American Psychological Association indicating the negative effects of excessive social media and cell phone use on adolescents' mental health and academic focus.

(With inputs from agencies.)