Policy Review Committee Meeting, May 14, 2026

The Virginia Beach Schools Policy Review Committee convened a special meeting on May 14, 2026, to discuss amendments to Policy 618 concerning instructional time and technology use for students. Key procurement-related discussions focused on the impact of limiting Chromebook and similar device use for students in pre-kindergarten through first grade classroom settings starting in the 2026-27 school year. The committee considered exceptions for technology use related to individualized education plans and limited educational assessments. They also discussed the logistics and budget implications of substituting digital resources with alternative instructional materials, noting ongoing efforts to purchase supplemental resources with current year funds. Additionally, the committee debated policy language regarding second graders' ability to take devices home during school closures due to severe weather or emergencies, ultimately agreeing to include provisions allowing this under specified conditions. The meeting concluded with a motion to forward the recommended policy amendments to the full school board for informational purposes at the next meeting.