Page County School Board adopts bell-to-bell cell-phone policy to start second semester

The Page County School Board voted Dec. 11 to adopt a districtwide “bell-to-bell” policy that will require students to keep personally owned electronic devices concealed and muted during instructional time, with limited principal-approved exceptions for medical/IEP needs and monitored dual-enrollment classes. The policy will take effect at the start of the second semester.

School administrators presented the measure as a clear, enforceable rule to reduce in-class distractions and support student mental health. Dr. Alford, who led the policy briefing, said the rule would mean students must “put them away” when the instructional bell rings and could have devices in a separate container such as a book bag or purse if needed for legitimate reasons. He emphasized that exceptions will be available for documented educational or medical needs, and that dual-enrollment courses will have monitored access to devices so students are not disadvantaged academically.

Board members asked about enforcement, emergency parent contact, and fairness across grade levels. One board member, speaking about student mental health, cited research and personal conversations with adolescents and said the policy is motivated in part by concerns that device overuse can harm engagement and well-being. A student representative told the board that students will find adjustments challenging but said a controlled approach could improve classroom focus.

Administrators said enforcement will rely on consistent staff application of the rule. The superintendent and staff described communication plans — assemblies, parent notices and teacher briefings — to prepare families and students before the second-semester start date. Dr. Alford said administrators would provide guidance and training for staff to ensure consistent application and to address foreseeable complications.

The motion to adopt the policy, with the explicit proviso that it be implemented at the beginning of the second semester, was moved and seconded and passed by voice vote.

The board directed staff to prepare rollout communications to parents and students and to provide clarifying guidance for principals on exception approvals. The policy text and exact implementation timeline will be published by the district before the start of the semester.