Watson Mountain Middle School in Leesburg opens doors for first time, welcomes 6th graders

LEESBURG, Va. ( DC News Now ) — Thursday marked the first day of school across Loudon County Public Schools (LCPS) and students headed to class at Watson Mountain Middle School for the first time.

This is the newest and the first four-story school building in the school district.

To celebrate the milestone, Independence High School cheerleaders and band cheered on the new 550 sixth graders as they arrived at the school.

The Watson Mountain Middle School is the home of the Yetis, which is their official mascot.

“Yetis are those who leave a mark—a legendary mark on the world so we see our students as really champions for change and being able to leave a great impression on the world around them,” said Watson Mountain Middle School Assistant Principal Gela Russell.

Staff are also emphasizing the importance this year of LCPS’ new “Student Personal Device Policy.”

The policy’s main points are redirect, refocus, and reward.

LCPS said a U.S. Surgeon General report found that children and teens who spend more than three hours a day on social media are twice as likely to experience mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.

School officials said the policy will improve learning.

“I don’t think there is a really good reason that kids should have a cellphone in a classroom,” said parent and teacher Jenni Simpson. It’s a distraction. “It takes away from learning.”

Some students agree.

“I think it’s actually super smart because then kids will be able to focus on their work and having fun instead of just scrolling through TikTok’s all day,” said student Liam Simpson.

This year, the school will only open to sixth graders but next year it will open to 6th and 7th graders.

The year after that, officials say it will be open to 8th graders as well.

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