Roanoke, Virginia – Roanoke County Public Schools has announced a series of community meetings this fall and winter. These events will focus on the impact of digital technology and social media on children’s emotional well-being and the alarming dangers lurking behind smartphone screens.
Held in partnership with the Partnership for Community Wellness, the initiative aims to equip parents and guardians with knowledge, tools, and expert advice to better support their children in an increasingly tech-driven world. The meetings will take place at various schools across the county, with most events beginning at 6 p.m.
Upcoming Meeting Dates and Locations
- October 13 – Northside High School
- October 27 – Masons Cove Elementary School
- October 28 – Glenvar Elementary School (starts at 6:30 p.m.)
- November 18 – Cave Spring High School
- December 8 – Glenvar Middle School
- January 22 – Herman L. Horn Elementary School
- January 26 – Burlington Elementary School
More sessions may be added based on community interest and demand.
Fighting the Silent Crisis
Roanoke County school leaders are urging parents to take the threat of digital overexposure seriously. Smartphones and social media are more than just distractions — they are changing the way children think, feel, and behave. Experts warn that excessive screen time is “rewiring young brains, disrupting sleep, fueling anxiety, and lowering academic success.”
Dr. Ken Nicely, superintendent of Roanoke County Public Schools, emphasized the urgency of the issue. “Social media is having a disastrous impact on our students, from cyberbullying to predators and more,” he said. “We strongly recommend parents wait until at least eighth grade, or later, before allowing their children to have a smartphone and access to social media. There are many online dangers, and we want to make sure our students are safe.”…