West Memphis, August 11, 2025
News Summary
West Memphis students are returning to class with new measures in place, including stricter cellphone policies and a virtual academy for grades 3-12. These changes respond to new Arkansas legislation aimed at enhancing focus and mental health among students. Additionally, the district has made early dismissals due to safety concerns from a winter storm. New coaching staff appointments also aim to bolster the district’s athletic programs, emphasizing a commitment to improving student outcomes and welfare.
West Memphis students are set to return to class on Tuesday, with the school district implementing two notable changes for the new academic year: stricter cellphone policies and the introduction of a virtual academy aimed at students in grades 3-12. These initiatives have emerged in response to both a new state law and the evolving needs of students and parents within the community.
The Bell to Bell, No Cell Act, a new Arkansas law, restricts the use of personal electronic devices during school hours. State officials have championed these restrictions, arguing that they will foster greater concentration and improve mental health among students. The West Memphis School District is taking a proactive stance in adhering to this law, reflecting a growing movement among educational institutions to create distraction-free environments conducive to learning.
In conjunction with the cellphone policy, West Memphis Schools will launch a new virtual academy targeted at students in grades 3 through 12. This program aims to provide families with flexible educational options and will supply each enrolled student with a school-issued device to facilitate their learning experience. The district’s administration emphasizes that the virtual academy is designed to meet the varying needs of both students and parents, accommodating those who may prefer remote education for various reasons ranging from personal safety to academic preferences.
On another note, the West Memphis school district made headlines recently when it addressed safety concerns linked to an impending winter storm. As icy road conditions posed a risk to transportation, the district executed an early dismissal for schools such as Bragg Elementary and West Junior High School. This decision has been welcomed by parents, who expressed relief that the health and safety of students are being prioritized during severe weather conditions. Despite the challenges posed by the storm, some students are reportedly excited about the potential for a day off from school on Wednesday.
In addition to these developments, the West Memphis School Board has approved several new coaching positions for local sports teams this week. Notably, former NCAA Division I quarterback Gerry Bohanon Jr. has been appointed as the quarterbacks coach. Bohanon, a native of Earle High School, pursued a successful college football career at Baylor University before finishing at BYU. He is among four new coaching staff members recently hired, including a running backs coach, linebackers coach, and tight ends coach, reflecting the district’s commitment to enhancing its athletics program.
As the new school year begins, students, parents, and staff will navigate these changes with the aim of improving educational outcomes and safety within the West Memphis community.
FAQ
What are the main changes for West Memphis Schools this year?
The main changes include stricter cellphone policies and the introduction of a new virtual academy for students in grades 3-12.
Why is the cellphone policy being implemented?
The implementation of the cellphone policy is in response to the Bell to Bell, No Cell Act, which aims to improve student focus and mental health.
What is the virtual academy?
The virtual academy is a new educational program for students in grades 3-12 that provides remote learning opportunities and includes school-issued devices for enrolled students.
How has the district addressed safety concerns with winter weather?
The district decided on early dismissals for schools like Bragg Elementary and West Junior High School in response to an impending winter storm and concerns about icy roads.
Who are the newly hired coaches for West Memphis sports teams?
New coaching hires include Gerry Bohanon Jr. as quarterbacks coach, alongside a running backs coach, linebackers coach, and tight ends coach, enhancing the athletic department’s team.
Key Features of the Changes
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Stricter Cellphone Policies | Limit usage of smartphones and other personal devices during school hours to improve focus and mental health. |
| Virtual Academy | A new learning platform for grades 3-12, providing remote education and school-issued devices for students. |
| Safety Measures | Early dismissal of schools during a winter storm to ensure student safety on icy roads. |
| Coaching Staff Changes | Appointment of new coaches, including Gerry Bohanon Jr. as quarterbacks coach, to improve the schools’ athletic programs. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Action News 5: West Memphis Schools Open with New Cellphone Rules
- WREG: West Memphis Schools Dismiss Early Due to Weather
- MSN: It’s Still About Education
- The Wynne Progress: Former NCAA QB Bohanon Hired
- Fox 13 Memphis: Mid-South School Openings and Closings
- Wikipedia: Education in Arkansas
- Google Search: West Memphis Schools
- Google Scholar: West Memphis Education Policy
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- Google News: West Memphis School District
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