Arlington Public Schools Takes Step Towards 'Phone-Free' Learning Environments

A New Era in Education: Arlington Public Schools Takes Step Towards 'Phone-Free' Learning Environments

The Arlington Public Schools (APS) district has announced the launch of a pilot program aimed at creating a more engaged learning environment by limiting cellphone usage. Starting in mid-September, four middle and high schools - Wakefield High School, H-B Woodlawn’s middle school grades, Swanson Middle School, and Thomas Jefferson Middle School - will participate in this innovative initiative.

The Program's Core Principle: Storing Cellphones for the Day

As part of the pilot program, students will be provided with Yondr magnetic pouches to store their cellphones while on school grounds. The pouches will feature a locking mechanism that seals closed when touched to a magnetic station. This means that students can safely store their phones and minimize distractions throughout the day.

A Response to Growing Concerns: Restricting Cellphone Use in Schools

The APS district is not alone in its efforts to address the impact of cellphone usage on student learning. In July, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin issued an executive order calling for state Education Department guidance on establishing phone-free learning environments. The draft guidance, published this month, encourages schools to restrict cellphone use from