Dear MCPS Families,
We hope this email finds you well as we begin an exciting new school year! We are writing to remind you about an important update regarding our cell phone policy in schools.
As you may be aware, Governor Glenn Youngkin recently issued Executive Order 33, which aims to establish cell phone-free education in Virginia's K-12 public schools. We are fortunate to be ahead of the curve as this order aligns with our already-existing policy, but it further underscores the importance of creating a focused learning environment for our students.
Our current policy states that while students may possess communication devices on school property, these devices must remain off and out of sight during the school day. Moving forward, we will be enforcing this policy more strictly to support the governor's initiative and to enhance our students' learning experience.
Governor Youngkin emphasized the importance of this action, explaining, "Creating cell phone and social media-free educational environments in Virginia's K-12 education system will benefit students, parents, and educators." The order aims 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."
We understand that this stricter enforcement may require some adjustment. However, we believe it will contribute to a healthier, more focused educational environment where every child is free to learn without digital distractions.
Failing to adhere to this policy will come with consequences including and up to the phone being confiscated from a student. Families can review our leveled system of disciplinary responses in the MCPS Student Expectations Handbook which is sent home with students each year and posted to the MCPS website.
We recognize that emergencies may arise, and you might need to contact your child during school hours. In such cases, please call the main office for your child’s school and we will ensure your child receives the message promptly. Phone numbers for each school are listed below and can also be found on the MCPS website:
Clearview Early Learning Center: (276) 403-5800
Albert Harris Elementary: (276) 403-5838
Patrick Henry Elementary: (276) 403-5812
Martinsville Middle School: (276) 403-5886
Martinsville High School: (276) 403-5178
We appreciate your support in implementing this policy. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we continue to strive to create the best possible learning environment for our students.
Sincerely,
Dr. Zebedee Talley
Superintendent
Martinsville City Public Schools