PGCPS Explores Updates to Cell Phone Policy

Amid national and local discussions on cell phones in the classroom, PGCPS is exploring potential updates to its policies.

“Cell phones have become a significant disruptor in the classroom, often creating environments that are less desirable for students to learn and for educators to teach,” said Superintendent Millard House II. “It is essential that we address this challenge thoughtfully, ensuring that policies are both effective and supportive of teaching and learning.”

Currently, PGCPS allows individual schools to implement tailored cell phone policies that meet their specific needs. 

Across the district, 12 schools – eight middle schools and four high schools – are piloting structured cell phone management strategies. These initiatives provide valuable insights into how different approaches impact student behavior, classroom engagement, and overall learning outcomes.

This effort builds on a review of the Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook (SRRH) conducted last spring. The handbook outlines behavioral expectations for students, and the review process included feedback from a wide range of stakeholders, including families, students, teachers, principals, labor unions, and community partners. At the time, there was no strong push for a district-wide cell phone policy. 

However, the topic has gained renewed attention, prompting further engagement with teacher, principal, parent, and student advisory boards.

While the state of Maryland has decided not to implement a statewide cell phone ban, it has provided toolkits to assist districts in crafting their own policies. 

PGCPS is committed to engaging the community throughout the process, and updates will be shared as discussions progress.