The Virginia Department of Education has recently released a draft of guidance for schools regarding phone usage in the classroom. The draft suggests a phone-free policy, aiming to minimize distractions and improve students’ focus during instructional time.
According to the draft guidance, schools are encouraged to implement policies that require students to keep their phones off and out of sight during class hours. The document notes that excessive phone use can lead to reduced academic performance, increased stress and anxiety, and poor communication skills.
The guidance also suggests that schools should provide alternative methods for students to communicate with their parents or guardians during the school day, such as using office phones or written notes. Additionally, the document recommends that schools educate students on responsible phone usage and the potential consequences of misuse.
While the draft guidance is not a mandate, it serves as a resource for schools looking to create or update their phone policies. The Virginia Department of Education plans to gather feedback from educators, parents, and other stakeholders before finalizing the guidance later this year.
Overall, the goal of the phone-free guidance is to create a more focused and productive learning environment for students. By reducing distractions and promoting responsible phone usage, schools can better support academic success and student well-being. The Virginia Department of Education hopes that schools will use this guidance to tailor their policies to meet the needs of their specific school community.
Source
Photo credit news.google.com