NEW Student Cell Phone/Wireless Device Use for 2024-25 School Year

Below is an IMPORTANT UPDATE regarding the use of cell phones and wireless devices while at school. The new PWCS cell phone and wireless communication device usage pilot is designed to support students in their academic success by removing a major distraction and promoting face-to-face social interactions and connections.

We believe that a cell phone on a desk or in a pocket provides too tempting a distraction for our students. When the device dings or buzzes, the minds of even the most conscientious students begin to wander. Studies tell us that it can take a brain up to ten minutes to reengage after responding to cell phone distractions. As we have all encountered, phones are not only distractions for their owners but also distractions for teachers and classmates.

WHAT’S CHANGING:

Starting in the 2024-25 school year, we’ll introduce consistent guidelines for cell phone use in school. Here’s an overview for Middle, Traditional School, and K-8 School Students:

1. All functions within personal cell phones/electronic devices, including earbuds, must be SILENCED and STORED AWAY during the school day.
2. DUAL-PURPOSE WATCHES may be worn but must have wireless/cellular features turned off (e.g., in airplane mode).
3. Wireless communication devices may be used on school buses if they DO NOT distract the driver, compromise safety, violate other school bus rules and regulations, and/or violate prohibited conduct identified in the PWCS Code of Behavior.

Porter administration wants to ensure parents and students both understand the expectations for meeting the PWCS Cell Phone and Wireless Communication Device Usage Guidelines. It is important that we each do our part to ensure students can maximize their focus on learning and maintain a safe school environment.

Students must adhere to the guidelines while on school property and at school-sponsored events regardless of location.  Below are links to view the consequences for students that do not adhere to the guidelines: 

VIEW STUDENT CONSEQUENCES FORM

VIEW PARENT LETTER RE: STUDENT CONSEQUENCES

In alignment with Governor Glenn Youngkin’s Executive Order 33, which aims to establish cell phone-free education in Virginia, PWCS will be gathering feedback from this pilot program before finalizing the wireless device guidelines and policy by January 1, 2025.

Visit the PWCS Cell Phone and Electronic Device Guidelines webpage for more information.   We appreciate your support in creating a focused, engaging, and safe learning environment for all students.