As a concerned student in Loudoun County Virginia, the safety of myself and my peers is one of my primary concern when I'm at school every day. Before the beginning of this school year, LCPS had an off and away policy. Since August, students are now required to store their cellphone and personal electronics in a designated class storage during instructional periods. There are already enough flaws in this policy, such as the effect it has on class to class transitions and vulnerability to easy access theft.

Glenn Youngkin has promised that on January 1st 2025, phones will be completely banned in all Virginia schools. Not on your person. Not at lunch. Not in between classes. This potential policy concerns both parents and students alike. Students, like myself, are unable to reach out quickly for help or inform our families when emergencies arise since we are not allowed to possess our phones during school hours. This restriction makes me, and many others students and parents, feel anxious and unprotected in our own learning environment. 

No more sugar coating. It is even more apparent than ever that over the years school shootings have been becoming more and more frequent. Instead of making any reasonable changes to help protect our students and teachers, Youngkin is erasing some students' last hope in a worst case scenario situation. 

Therefore, we appeal to Governor Glenn Youngkin to review and reconsider the policies related to mobile phone usage in Virginia high schools. A change in this policy will not only improve students' sense of security but also promote a communication bridge between us students and our family members during emergencies, which is vital for fostering a safe and conducive learning environment.

If you want to help contribute to our goal, consider taking a minute to sign this petition, or send a message directly to the governor's office. Every voice counts. This is a last call for protection.