Less Phone Time Means More Learning Time
As part of the updated Cell Phone and Personal Mobile Device Regulation (COG-RA), MCPS will limit how personal mobile devices—including mobile phones, e-readers, smart watches, tablets, wearable technology, video and audio recorders and gaming devices—can be used during the school day for the 2025–2026 school year.
Limiting phone use during class helps students stay focused, engaged and better able to retain information. Other benefits include:
- Fewer distractions = better learning and participation
- Teachers can teach without interruptions
- Research shows that less screen time promotes social-emotional well-being
- Classrooms run more smoothly
- Everyone benefits from a more respectful, focused environment
Bottom line: Less phone time means more learning time.
What families and students need to know:
- Before and After School: Students in all grade levels may use their personal mobile devices before the school day begins and after it ends.
- Elementary and Middle Schools: During the school day—including class time, lunch and transitions between periods—students will need to keep their personal devices turned off and stored away.
- High Schools: High school students may use their personal devices during lunch and between classes, but not during instructional time.
- On School Buses: Students are permitted to use their devices while riding MCPS buses.
- Student Responsibility: Students are expected to manage their devices responsibly, making sure they are turned off and out of sight when use is not permitted.
- Discipline and Expectations: If a student misuses their device, consequences will follow a progressive approach outlined in the updated Student Code of Conduct, which will be released in the summer, and focuses on education and accountability. Updates to the MCPS Student Code of Conduct will clarify and re-establish expectations for student behavior. Learn more. Principals have the authority to allow limited cell phone use during class time if the use supports instruction.
- Medical and Learning Accommodations: Students will continue to have access as documented in the 504 or Individualized Education Plan (IEP) that allows for personal mobile device use.
This revised regulation reflects MCPS’ continued commitment to creating a school experience where students can thrive—balancing the benefits of technology with the need to stay focused, respectful and connected in the classroom.
