In a November 7 meeting, Henry County School Board members reviewed revisions to the Bell-to-Bell cell phone policy, clarifying when and how electronic devices can be used, along with options for medical exemptions and new disciplinary measures for student violations.
The updated policy broadens restrictions to include not only cell phones but also tablets, beepers, and other communication devices with unfiltered internet access. Devices are now prohibited from being carried on a student’s person during school hours.
“It is not to be on your person,” said Superintendent Dr. Amy-Blake Lewis, adding that the school is still determining storage options for devices. Students requiring access for medical reasons may apply for exemptions under a 504 plan or an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), with each request subject to review before approval.
For students found using devices in violation of the policy, disciplinary measures will follow a progressive path, starting with in-school suspension and escalating to out-of-school suspension for repeated or severe offenses. However, some board members expressed concern over the use of suspension as a primary punishment. Board member Elizabeth Durden advocated alternatives, suggesting options like restricting after-school activities or Saturday school instead.
Board member Kimberly Brinegar also voiced her reservations, citing current attendance issues and the potential for suspension to worsen absentee rates. She proposed a grace period for enforcing the new rules after students return from winter break.
“We have to be mindful of our days out of school,” said Lewis, emphasizing that counselors are developing learning modules to help students understand the importance of the Bell-to-Bell policy. The updated cell phone restrictions are set to take effect after winter break.
Proposal for Bible-Based LifeWise Program
Several parents at the meeting proposed implementing the LifeWise Program, a Bible-based class offered during school hours for interested students, believing it could boost academic success while addressing issues like mental health challenges, bullying, discipline, and respect.
The LifeWise website outlines the steps for initiating the program, which include gathering 50 parent signatures, holding a kick-off meeting, and raising $500 in funds. Following these initial steps, a planning phase would establish a committee to draft the course, which would then be pitched to the school board for approval. If accepted, implementation would occur within approximately 12 weeks.
Parents stressed that holding the program during school hours is essential to allow equal access for all students, as after-school scheduling conflicts and transportation issues may prevent some from attending.
School Performance Update
Lewis presented a report on school performance and the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) framework, showing that most schools in the county were performing well, though some schools were identified for improvement.
“Nine of our schools would be categorized as on track, while four were categorized as off-track,” said Lewis, explaining that the data would guide targeted support.
The four schools currently below the 80-point “on track” score are Bassett High School (0.5 points below), Fieldale-Collinsville Middle School (2.7 points below), Laurel Park Middle School (6.6 points below), and Mount Olivet Elementary (2.3 points below).
“Grow Your Own” Teacher Program
The board also discussed the fully funded Grow Your Own Teacher Apprenticeship Program, which aims to provide free tuition for employees with associate degrees to further their education, specifically targeting elementary education.
“I’m just glad to see that money now,” said board member Ben Gravely.
Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning Lisa Millner expressed hope that the program might eventually expand to include support for employees across all grade levels.
Additional Board Actions
The board approved the purchase of replacement smart boards for $148,050, funded by the fiscal year 2025 budget. Additionally, the January 2 board meeting was rescheduled to January 9 to accommodate the holiday.
The board recognized the following individuals and groups for achievements and observances:
– American Legion Flag Etiquette, Homer Dillard Post #78
– Veterans Day
– Take Your Legislator to School Month
– VSBA Bullying Prevention Month winners
– Disability Rights and Resource Center Awareness Day
– Family Engagement in Education Month
– Native American Heritage Month
– VSBA award winners
– Luke Gardner for earning 1st Team All-District and 2nd Team Regional in golf.
