West Point Public Schools to ban student personal devices during instructional hours starting Jan. 6, 2025

A presenter for West Point Public Schools announced that the district will implement a cell phone–free education policy beginning Jan. 6, 2025, prohibiting personal electronic devices during instructional hours.

The presenter said the policy is "in compliance with Governor Glenn Youngkin's Executive Order 33 and guidance from the Department of Education." The announcement listed banned items as "cell phones, SmartWatches, earbuds and personal laptops or tablets" and said devices must be "powered off [and] stored away" during instructional periods, including lunchtime and transitions.

District officials framed the change as an effort to reduce distractions and "support academic success, encourage personal connections and promote overall well‑being." The presenter said cell phone use will still be permitted on school buses and after the instructional day.

For nonemergency contact, the presenter asked parents to use the school's main office number; in emergencies the district said it will "follow established communication protocols to ensure families are informed quickly and effectively." The announcement did not provide details about enforcement, disciplinary steps, or whether devices will be collected when found in use.

The policy applies to devices students bring from home; the presenter described the initiative as more than limiting screen time, calling it a way to "create increased opportunities for growth and connection." The district did not specify any changes to classroom technology use supervised by teachers.

The presenter closed the announcement by saying, "together we're keeping students pointed in the right direction towards a brighter future for all."