Back-to-School Guide for Cumberland County Schools: What you need to know

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (WTVD) -- Over 49,000 students across Cumberland County return to the classroom Monday for the start of the traditional calendar school year and district leaders say this year brings several important changes for families.

It's the first school year under new superintendent Dr. Eric Bracy, who is leading the district under the theme "Anchored in Excellence". Bracy said the motto represents staying rooted in what matters most - the people who make up the district, both students and staff, and the mission that drives the work being done across all Cumberland County schools.

District leaders are emphasizing safety, student support and family involvement as students head back to class.

New Cellphone Policy

One key update for this school year is the district's alignment with a new state law on cell phone use in classrooms. In Cumberland County, phones are not banned outright, but students must keep them turned off and put away during instruction time, unless told otherwise by a teacher.

School Safety and Visitor Requirements

District officials are also urging patience from families during the first few days as students adjust to district safety protocols.

"We want to just advise everyone to please give us their patience and understanding the first few days. For those who are new to the weapons detection systems that will be in place," said Lindsay Whitley, associate superintendent for Cumberland County Schools. "We also have our Say Something anonymous reporting system in place."

Whitley also reminded families that visitors must bring a valid ID if they plan to check out a student or visit campus during school hours.

Attendance Policy Expanded

The district's updated attendance policy, first introduced at the high school level in January, now extends to middle and elementary schools. Officials say the policy is part of a broader push to promote consistent attendance.

"If a child is 30 minutes late every day in three or four months, that time really adds up," Whitley said. "So the foundation of the new attendance policy is really a campaign to partner with families to say, will you partner with us as a school system to make sure your child is on time and present every day for class?"

Additional Resources for Families

Cumberland County Schools is encouraging families to explore several resources available for the new year, including:

• The revised Code of Conduct
• District mental health resources
• A language support line for non-English speakers
• The Infinite Campus information system being used this year

Officials also ask that families review district-wide school bus policies, noting that only authorized personnel and students are allowed on board.

Sistrict leaders are calling on parents and guardians to stay engaged - and volunteer if possible at their child's school.