Henrico County Public Schools (HCPS) has implemented a new phone policy for the current school year.
The government states that there will be no phone use during the school day, which includes class, study periods, and lunch. In class, students must place their phones in designated pouches. At lunch and other non-instructional times, phones must remain out of sight.
This law began in Jan. 2025 and was officially signed by Governor Glenn Youngkin in July 2025.
According to HCPS, the goal of this policy is to reduce distractions, enhance focus, and prompt more face-to-face interactions among students.
This marks a major change in student behavior. In past years, students were given the ability to use their phones at lunch and during free periods. For many, the shift has been difficult considering students were allowed to use their cell phones during free periods and shifted to a bell-to-bell phone ban.
The policy has sparked mixed reactions. Some students say this new policy has helped them concentrate during the school day, while other students feel it limits their independence.
Students at Godwin High School also shared their perspectives on the new phone policy.
“If I could change one thing about the phone policy, it would be to let us have phones during common study and lunch,” said sophomore Sara Hanna. “I used to be able to text my family and friends, and I miss being able to do that.”
Another student agreed, saying phones should be allowed during lunch and common study. They explained that phones can help shy students who may not feel comfortable starting conversations. They also noted that phones provide something to do without disturbing others who are working and that they are useful in the hallway for checking schedules or contacting parents.
Staff members at Godwin High School believe the policy could be refined.
“If I could change one thing about the policy, it would be to allow students to use their phones during lunchtime,” said Mr. Torrence, an administrator at Godwin. “I think it should be revisited to add more detail and more thought behind it.”
Principal Dunavant explained how many students are adjusting well to the new rule. She added that consistent teacher enforcement has been key and noted that more students are conversing with each other at lunch.
As we start the school year, the true test for the new bell-to-bell phone ban will be seen in student’s academic performance and focus, answering the question as to if these policies will truly improve the academic experience.
