Join

Fredericksburg Public Schools to Implement Cell Phone Ban

To enhance the educational experience, Fredericksburg City Public Schools will enforce a new cell phone policy starting in August 2024. The policy, which affects all students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, is designed to minimize distractions and improve overall student well-being and academic performance.

New Policy Details:

– PK-5 Students: Cell phones will be entirely prohibited during the school day.
– 6-12 Students: Students must lock their phones in specially designed, magnetized Yondr phone pouches. These pouches will be unlocked at the end of the school day or when students leave the building early.

The school division notes that the decision comes in response to growing concerns about the negative impact of cell phone use and social media on students’ mental and emotional health. Research indicates that reliance on social media and cell phones is linked to lower academic achievement, poor behavior choices, anxiety, depression, loneliness, and reduced engagement both in the classroom and in social settings.

According to the school district, a recent study involving 1,200 schools that implemented the Yondr program reported significant improvements:

– Teaching and Learning Time: 94% of teachers noted increased classroom teaching and learning time.
– Academic Performance: 65% of schools saw enhanced academic performance.
– Student Behavior: 74% of schools observed improved student behavior.
– Safety and Wellness: 86% of schools reported a positive impact on school safety and wellness.
– Student Engagement: 83% of schools experienced increased student engagement in the classroom.

The city has more than 3,600 students in its public schools. Cell phones have been a staple in public schools since the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on New York City and Arlington.

Recent Stories

STAFFORD, Va. – Stafford County is tackling two major traffic challenges — and it’s asking residents to weigh in while preparing to break ground on a major intersection upgrade.

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. – Early voting is now underway in Virginia’s Democratic primary for Lieutenant Governor, and one Northern Virginia candidate is making a bold stand on gambling.

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – City work crews have now removed more than 15 tons of debris from the drained canal running through Fredericksburg and made several key repairs to its aeration system, according to the latest update from city officials.

Stafford County Public Schools is tackling its transportation woes with a bold plan for Fall 2025. Superintendent Dr. Daniel W. Smith announced the launch of a two-tier bus system and a new opt-in policy to streamline elementary routes and reduce no-shows.

Empower Your Future: Leadership, Mentorship, Education, and Networking — Calling middle and high school students for FREE Educational Summer Programming!

LLT STEMpower Camp at Marymount University

Middle School Students | Two Sessions:

July 7–11, 2025

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Inspired by local physicians who were among the nation’s first to adopt the concierge medicine model, Northern Virginia is now a hub for its surging popularity. These leading physicians are redefining the patient experience with same-day appointments, direct availability, unhurried visits, and deeply personalized care:

After almost 40 years in practice, Manassas-based Internist John Cary, MD’s change to concierge medicine enabled focused attention for each individual, and the launch of his innovative diet program for those with type 2 diabetes. “The goal is to promote enough weight loss to reach an acceptable A1C of 6% with no medication,” he explains. “Achieving that can take several months of very close follow up. As I tell my patients, we are in this together.”

Jay Tyroler, MD considers his patients quite literally as family. “I believe there’s nothing more honorable than helping patients when they’re sick, or scared, or feeling vulnerable, and I care for them exactly as I would my loved ones.” Whether for a specialist referral, urgent health issue or ongoing follow up, “My patients know I’m always just a phone call away.”

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Your Weight Matters National Convention

Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.

This unique Convention truly has something

Van Metre 5K Run

Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has

Ă—

Subscribe to our mailing list