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Privacy and Consent

Being a responsible digital citizen means protecting your own private information and treating other people's privacy with respect.

Smart Sharing & Staying Safe

Protecting yourself and others online starts with being smart about what you share. Always ask for permission before taking or posting photos of your classmates and teachers, and keep your personal details like your full name, passwords, home address, phone number, and school schedule private.

Mandatory Permission

Always obtain permission from peers and staff before taking or posting photos and videos of them.

Privacy Settings

Actively manage default settings.
Remember: "private" content can still be screenshotted and shared.

Data Protection

Never share full names, addresses, birthdays, or passwords online — not even with friends you trust.

Safety and Bullying

Montgomery County Public Schools is dedicated to a secure digital environment where every student can connect with confidence. Follow these steps to handle cyberbullying and access critical support.

Immediate Steps

Immediate Steps

  • Don't engage: Never reply to or forward bullying or harassing content.
  • Block and remove: Instantly unfriend, block, or remove anyone sending inappropriate messages.
  • Save the proof: Take screenshots or print the messages so you can show a trusted adult or school official.

Reporting

  • Cybersafety Dropbox: Report inappropriate online activity within the school system directly to abuse@mcpsmd.org.
  • School Support: Reach out to your principal or counselor.
  • Anonymous Hotline: Use the Safe Schools Maryland Hotline at 833-MD-B-Safe (833-632-7233)

Crisis Resources

  • Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988. (National)
  • The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+): Call 866-488-7386 or text 678-678. (National)
  • Montgomery County Crisis Center: Call 240-777-4000 for free mental health support

Screentime and Balance

A practical guide to healthy screen habits and finding balance in the digital age.

 

Healthy Limits

Set daily screen time limits for yourself. Social media is designed to be addictive — be intentional about your usage.

Tip: Use your phone's built-in screen time tools to set app limits. Start with 1-2 hours per day and adjust as needed.

 

Sleep and Focus

Put devices away at least 30 minutes before bed. Blue light affects sleep quality and impacts your academic performance.

Sleep Benefits

  • Better focus in class
  • Improved memory
  • Better mood & energy

What to do Instead

  • Read a book
  • Listen to music
  • Stretch or meditate
 

Face to Face Connections

Make time for real friendships and activities offline. Nothing replaces in-person conversations and experiences.

Real Connection Ideas:

  • Hang out with friends in person
  • Join a club or sport
  • Talk to family or friends
 

Physical and Mental Wellness

Spend time away from devices. Spend time exercising your mind and body.

Move Your Body

  • Exercise improves mood, reduces stress, and boosts energy levels.
  • Take a walk or run
  • Play a sport or game
  • Dance or stretch
  • Try yoga or martial arts

Mind & Nature

  • Taking breaks from screens improves your overall well-being and mental health.
  • Spend time outside
  • Practice mindfulness or meditation
  • Read or draw
  • Pursue a hobby you love

Remember: Your mental and physical health are more important than any social media post. Taking breaks is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Read More (NIH article on managing screentime)