Roanoke, Virginia – The Roanoke County School Board has recently approved a new policy regulating the use of mobile devices by students within school premises. This decision comes as part of an effort to balance technological accessibility with educational integrity.
According to the newly established guidelines, high school students are permitted to use mobile devices such as cell phones, smart watches, and tablets during specific non-instructional times. These times include before and after school, in between classes, and during lunch periods. However, during classroom sessions, high school students are required to turn off their devices and keep them stored away, ensuring they are out of sight to prevent distractions.
For younger students in elementary and middle schools, the policy is more stringent. These students are not allowed to use their mobile devices at any point during the school day. The devices must remain turned off and tucked away to maintain a focused learning environment. This aligns with the existing procedures already in place at these lower levels of education.
The School Board’s decision reflects a commitment to adapting to technological advancements while maintaining an environment conducive to learning. This policy aims to teach students responsible digital behavior and prioritizes educational engagement over digital distractions.
