Maryland's Largest School District
Understanding digital citizenship regulations, school policies, and your rights as a student.
MCPS wants to make sure our classrooms are welcoming and positive places for learning and paying attention. MCPS knows that phones and tablets help with school work and keep us connected, but they can also be distracting during class. This policy helps us balance using technology while staying focused on our schoolwork and each other.
MCPS policies extend to student conduct on personal devices, including personal social media accounts, especially when the behavior impacts the school community, involves other students, or occurs during school hours.
MCPS has established clear student rights regarding digital citizenship, privacy, and due process. Understanding these rights empowers you to advocate for yourself.
Comprehensive guide to student rights including privacy protections, due process procedures, and steps to take if you experience or witness harassment.
Outlines behavioral expectations, rights, and responsibilities for all students including conduct policies and disciplinary procedures.
Maryland has enacted legislation addressing digital harassment, cyberbullying, and online safety. These state laws apply to all students and provide legal protections and consequences.
A new state law means Maryland schools are focusing on phone-free school days to help us learn and connect without distractions. Devices will need to be put away from the morning bell until dismissal, except for special classroom activities.
When social media is used for learning, it serves as a digital extension of your school environment. Use these guidelines to manage your academic work and personal boundaries.
Any social media activity performed for a graded assignment, school club, or athletic team is considered formal school work. All MCPS rules—including standards for respectful behavior and academic integrity—apply online just as they do in the classroom.
Practicing netiquette and being a good digital citizen means treating others online with the same respect you would show them in the classroom.
Digital Citizenship means using social media and technology in a responsible, respectful way so everyone feels safe online. The golden rule is simple: treat others on your screen exactly how you would want to be treated in person. Whether you are messaging a classmate or emailing a teacher, your online choices should match the positive behavior expected in your real-life classroom.
Post only what you would want your family or teacher to see. If in doubt, leave it out.
Write the way you'd speak to a teacher. Avoid "shouting" and excessive exclamation points.
Make sure your post is something you'd confidently say in person, are completely fine with anyone screenshotting, and represents the best version of you.
Cheating online is still cheating. Never share assessment information.
