Fairfax County School Board urges families to delay smartphones until eighth grade
Updated
Updated · FFXnow · Apr 29
Fairfax County School Board urges families to delay smartphones until eighth grade
9 articles · Updated · FFXnow · Apr 29
The board approved the non-binding 'Wait Until 8th' resolution on April 23, recommending families avoid giving children smartphones before eighth grade, with exceptions for students with disabilities or educational needs.
The measure aims to establish developmentally appropriate smartphone use as a community norm, citing research on risks like depression and sleep issues, and comes as the board plans stricter cell phone regulations for all grades.
If approved, new rules—including a ban on cell phone use during the school day and discipline for sharing intimate images—will take effect in the 2026-2027 school year, reflecting broader concerns about technology’s impact on students.
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