Dear Students & Families,

Before Winter Break, the Albemarle County School Board approved a new policy to support Personal Device-Free Education across all schools in our division. This policy is part of our efforts to create safe and focused learning spaces for all students. To support this policy, we’ve established practices for each school level to meet students’ needs and ensure consistency across the division. You can read our December 13 news release for more details.

While individual school practices may vary slightly within each level, schools will continue to communicate specific details directly with their families to ensure everyone understands how this policy will be implemented.

High Schools:

1. No Device Use During Class Periods
   Students must store cell phones and other personal communication devices during all classes, including study halls and intervention periods. Exceptions will be made for students with IEPs or 504 Plans that specify the need for access to personal devices.
2. Device Storage
   Personal devices must be kept in backpacks or lockers, or other locations specified by the school. Students may not carry or use them during class or restroom breaks.
3. Emergency Contact Procedures
   Families can contact the school’s front office to reach their child during the school day. Students can use a school phone to contact families if needed.
4. Alternatives During Class Changes and Lunch
   Schools will work with students to develop alternatives to device use during transitions between classes and lunch periods. These changes will happen in phases, with full implementation by August 2025.
5. Device Use on Buses and School-Sponsored Events
   Students may use personal devices on school buses as long as they do not distract others or cause safety problems. Bus drivers can ask students to put devices away if needed. On field trips or off-campus events, staff will follow the same device rules used in classrooms. Staff may allow devices for learning purposes or for taking pictures or videos.

Middle Schools:

Since the 2019-20 school year, Albemarle County Public Schools has implemented an “Away for the Day” cell phone practice in all middle schools. This approach helps transform schools into cell phone-free spaces by requiring students to turn off their personal communication devices and store them from the first bell to the last.

Elementary Schools:

Elementary schools will continue to enforce their rule that students may not use personal communication devices during the school day. This rule applies to students from the first bell to the last bell. In some schools, it also includes bus rides to and from school.

We appreciate your support as we continue to create a more focused learning environment for all students. If you have questions, please contact your child’s school.