Danville Public Schools to roll out new cell phone policy

Lauren Helkowski, Digital Content Producer

DANVILLE, Va. – Danville Public Schools is rolling out its new “Unplug 2 Learn” protocol for cell phone use in schools for the 2023-2024 school year.

The new policy prohibits the use of any unauthorized electronic or mechanical device that is not used for instruction during school hours. According to the school division, this includes mobile phones, portable musical devices, laser pointers, cameras, laptop computers, MP3 players, iPods, portable DVD players, portable TV’s, smart watches, and more.

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The school division said, “Our goal is to engage our students, support their academic success, and promote positive social interactions and connections by removing a major barrier: cell phones and other electronic devices.”

The new protocol lays out policies for students in the following grade groups.

Pre-K and Elementary Students (PreK-5th Grade)

Secondary Students (6th-12th Grade)

The new policy also lays out consequences for protocol violations, as well as the use of any electronic device to record students, teachers or staff without permission.

DANVILLE, Va.