Students are adjusting to a new, stricter phone policy this school year after the General Assembly of Virginia amended Section 22.1-79.3:1, a statewide law passed in April 2025. The updated policy bans all students from using phones and smart devices, including smartwatches, tablets, and laptops, from the first bell to the last (bell to bell), even during lunch and passing periods.

This is a major change from last year’s policy, when the school’s phone rules were more relaxed. While phones weren’t allowed during class, guidelines were less strict and enforcement was variable.

Now with a state law in place, teachers are expected to strictly enforce the ban, but some say it’s not that easy. 

“The idea of this policy is good, and it’s about improving focus, but it’s not executed well,” said Edward Chi, a biology and environmental science teacher. “It’s very difficult to manage when students keep trying to hide their phones.”

Physics teacher Kanti Choudhari  added that some students have started bringing multiple phones to get around the rule.

Students also have frustrations.

“It’s frustrating when I’m told not to check my phone during lunch,” said senior Arnav Shah.

” We should at least be able to use them during breaks,” said sophomore Saheb Deo. 

Some teachers have noticed  more engagement in class, but most believe it’s too early to measure the full effect.

 “I’ve acknowledged the policies intent to support focus and get rid of distractions,” said Principal Ryan Hitchman. ” We’ll see where it goes from here.”