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Dept. of Education Bans Unsupervised Cellphone Use in Classrooms, Sets Strict Rules for Emergencies, Prohibited Activities, and Discipline in 2025-2026 School Year

Cellphones and other personal electronic devices will no longer be freely used in classrooms across the Virgin Islands’ public schools. The V.I. Department of Education (VIDE) on Wednesday introduced a Personal Electronic Communication Device Use Policy for the 2025-2026 school year, applying to every student, teacher, administrator, and staff member. The goal, according to VIDE, is to create classrooms free from distractions while protecting students from privacy risks and online threats. By restricting unsanctioned device use, the department says it hopes to reduce exposure to cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and other issues that interfere with learning. Under the new guidelines, devices such as phones and tablets can only be used during class when a teacher has given written permission for specific educational purposes. Otherwise, they must remain stored in backpacks or other secure spots. The policy makes clear that exceptions exist for emergencies, including medical concer...