Stafford County and Fredericksburg have already banned them. Cell phones have been ubiquitous in the classroom since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.
More from the governor in a press release:
Given the increasing evidence of the impact cell phone and social media usage has on education and youth mental health, Governor Glenn Youngkin today issued Executive Order 33, which directs the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) to draft guidance for public school divisions to adopt local policies and procedures establishing cell phone-free education.
The EO directs VDOE to initiate a robust public engagement effort with parents, students, teachers, local school leaders and other stakeholders to develop collaboratively policies and procedures that establish the age-appropriate restriction or elimination of cell phone use during instructional time, as well as to establish protocols allowing parents to contact their children in emergency and other important situations.
In addition, the Governor announced today that the VDOE and the Department of Behavioral Health and Development Services (DBDHS) will make a combined $500,000 available from existing funds to support implementation of this mental health and safety initiative.
“This essential action will promote a healthier and more focused educational environment where every child is free to learn. Creating cell phone and social media-free educational environments in Virginia’s K-12 education system will benefit students, parents, and educators,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “Today’s Executive Order both establishes the clear goal to protect the health and safety of our students by limiting the amount of time they are exposed to addictive cell phones and social media and eliminates clear distractions in the classroom. It also kicks off the robust conversations among parents, students, teachers, and school and community leaders necessary to design and implement these policies and procedures at the local level.”
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The race to replace the late Bob Weir on the Prince William Board of County Supervisors just got more crowded. George T. Stewart, a Navy veteran and longtime community advocate, has officially entered the Gainesville District special election—and he’s joining the Democratic caucus.
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As Manassas tries to position itself as a destination for major business investment, I can’t help but wonder what message we’re really sending—especially when our public schools are struggling so visibly.
SAVE THE DATE
September 11, 2025
Location: Sport Rock Climbing Center
9811 Washingtonian Blvd Ste 300, Gaithersburg, Md 20878
We’re excited to share that Molly’s Dog Care has officially opened its doors at 8525 Chevy Chase Lake Terrace, Suite 302, Chevy Chase, MD 20815!
Whether you’re looking for dog daycare, overnight boarding, grooming, or training, our experienced team is here to provide a safe, loving, and enriching environment for your furry family members. Our services are designed with your dog’s happiness and well-being in mind because at Molly’s, we treat every pup like our own.
A Message from Owner Aaron DeVane:
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
