BFA-St. Albans Implements Cell Phone Ban Ahead of State Mandate

BFA-St. Albans will enforce a cell phone ban for the upcoming 2025-26 school year, initiating the policy ahead of a statewide mandate that begins in fall 2026. Starting from the first day of school, students will be required to turn off their phones and store them in zippered pouches provided by the school, which must remain in their backpacks or lockers during school hours.

Principal Polly Rico emphasized that this decision aims to address the distractions caused by mobile devices. “In the trenches, in the classroom, we see on a daily basis the distraction and impact phones have on students’ social and emotional health,” she stated. The ban also includes smartwatches and Bluetooth devices, while students can still listen to music using wired headphones connected to their Chromebook computers.

This initiative comes after the Vermont legislature and governor approved Act 72 in June, which mandates similar restrictions across the state. Following this legislative change, Rico conducted a survey among BFA staff, where 85% expressed support for implementing the ban a year early.

Supporting Students Through the Transition

Understanding the potential anxiety that may arise from not having access to a phone, BFA staff is preparing to support students and families during this transition. The school employs three social workers, two therapy dogs, and a team of guidance counselors to assist students with any challenges they may face.

Rico acknowledged that while mobile devices offer convenience, they also come with significant drawbacks. “Cell phones have afforded us a lot of ease, but at a cost,” she remarked. Research indicates that excessive social media use can lead to issues such as poor sleep, online harassment, and increased anxiety.

Communication between families and students will be facilitated through BFA’s main office. Parents needing to reach their children can contact the school at 802-527-6555, and students will have access to a landline for making calls if needed.

Changes in Communication Strategies

In addition to the cell phone ban, BFA will revamp how it communicates with families regarding extracurricular activities and events. The school plans to implement BrightChat, a two-way communication platform that aligns with new state legislation prohibiting the use of social media for school-related communications.

Previously, coaches and staff often relied on platforms like Facebook to connect with students and parents. Under the new guidelines, BFA staff will use BrightChat to send text messages and emails about important updates, including game cancellations and schedule changes.

Rico acknowledged the challenges that may arise during this adjustment. “It’s going to be a huge learning curve, and we understand that,” she explained. “That’s why we wanted to go a year early… so we all can start to feel comfortable and confident.”

For further details, BFA has compiled a list of FAQs to aid families in understanding the new policies and procedures.