Roanoke County Public Schools (RCPS) is encouraging parents and caregivers to take an active role in protecting digital safety children’s well-being by attending four upcoming community meetings focused on student safety, digital awareness, and mental health.
Meetings on Digital Safety and Cellphone Use
Three meetings, in cooperation with the Partnership for Community Wellness, will address the increasing dangers of excessive cellphone and social media use among elementary, middle, and high school students.
According to RCPS, “today’s digital world is full of threats including dangerous apps disguised as games, online predators, social media addiction, and relentless cyberbullying.” Parents will be provided with practical strategies and expert guidance to help them recognize warning signs, set healthy digital boundaries, and protect their child’s emotional health in a tech-driven society. These events are designed to raise digital safety awareness among families and empower them with actionable solutions.
Excessive device use has been linked to:
- Sleep disruption
- Increased anxiety and depression
- Lower academic performance
- Difficulty focusing and regulating emotions
Dr. Ken Nicely, superintendent of Roanoke County Public Schools, emphasized:
“Social media is having a disastrous impact on our students, from cyberbullying to predators and more. 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.”
Meeting schedule on cellphone use and digital safety (all at 6 p.m.):
- September 17 – William Byrd High School
- October 13 – Northside High School
- November 18 – Cave Spring High School
Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Awareness
In addition to digital safety, a separate meeting on September 22 at 6 p.m. at Northside High School will focus on suicide prevention and early mental health intervention.
Parents and caregivers will learn how to:
- Recognize the signs and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts
- Understand risk factors that may increase a child’s vulnerability
- Take proactive steps to support their child’s mental and emotional well-being
- Access support services available through schools and local community resources
Dr. Shawn Hughes, director of school counseling, stated:
“We continue to be in the midst of a mental health crisis. The sooner a parent or caregiver can recognize that a student is struggling, the sooner that student can receive support through the many resources available.”
These meetings are especially timely, following the tragic death by suicide of 10-year-old Roanoke County student Autumn Bushman. Leaders are urging the community to come together, share awareness, and take preventative steps to protect children.
Dr. Nicely concluded:
“If we partner together to take steps, even small steps, these can have a big impact on our children’s well-being and mental health.”
Why These Meetings Matter
The rise in cyberbullying, online predators, and social media pressure highlights the urgent need for schools and parents to collaborate. Digital safety is no longer optional—it is essential to protecting children in today’s tech-driven world. Early mental health education and intervention can save lives and build resilience in children. By attending, parents will gain actionable tools to strengthen their child’s safety both online and offline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) –
Q1. Why is social media harmful for children and teens?
Excessive social media use has been linked to anxiety, depression, body image issues, and sleep problems. Children are also exposed to cyberbullying and potential online predators, making digital safety a priority for families.
Q2. What are the warning signs of a child struggling with mental health?
Parents should look for withdrawal from friends and activities, changes in sleep or eating habits, declining grades, irritability, or talk about hopelessness.
Q3. How can parents set healthy digital boundaries?
Experts recommend delaying smartphone ownership until at least eighth grade, limiting screen time, monitoring apps, and encouraging offline activities such as sports, arts, and family time.
Q4. What resources are available for families in Roanoke County?
RCPS offers school counselors, community partnerships for wellness, and crisis resources. Local organizations also provide therapy, support groups, and suicide prevention hotlines.
Q5. What should I do if I suspect my child is suicidal?
Take all signs seriously. Speak with your child calmly, contact your school counselor, and reach out to local crisis services or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for immediate support.
