NORFOLK, Va. — Students are about to head back to the classroom, and for many school divisions students can expect to be told to leave their cell phones at home.
However, a new state initiative might make the decision for them in the next few weeks.
Governor Glenn Younkin issued Executive Order 33 to limit students' time in front of a cell phone while on school grounds. This means students would have to keep cell phones turned off and put away from the start of the school day until dismissal.
Chuck Lowery, associate professor of educational leadership and policy studies at Virginia Tech, said this brings good and bad ideas for not only students but also for teachers.
"Cellphones have been used as teaching tools and I know of districts across the country who implement different one-to-one devices," said Lowery.
This can include online polling or turning in an assignment through a phone. Lowery said it is often done to engage with technology students will try to sneak into class regardless, and is a way to keep students engaged.
"The idea is to use a tool these students are already familiar with," said Lowery. "While it can definitely be a distraction, it can also be a great learning tool if implemented correctly."
However, it appears most educators would agree that cell phones are more distraction than boon.
A Pew Research Poll found 72% of the nation's high school teachers say cell phones are a major problem in the classroom.
Lowery said regardless of one's opinion on cell phones in the classroom, it is important for students and teachers to abide by the rules set by the schools.
"I understand some parents might have an issue with this specifically because of safety concerns, but I think everyone needs to respect the autonomy of teachers and schools and to come together for the real purpose which is making sure kids learn in a safe, and consistent environment," said Lowery.
Feedback on the draft guidelines closes Sept. 15, and school boards must decide to vote by January of next year.