Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) has an updated student cell phone policy for the 2026-27 school year, which provides clear expectations for personal cell phone/personal digital device use during the school day.
The updated policy was approved during the June 2026 Board Meeting, effective immediately, and builds upon GCPS’s previous expectations regarding student cell phone use. The changes also align with new requirements established by the Maryland General Assembly through the Joanne C. Benson Maryland Phone-Free Schools Act (via House Bill 525 / Senate Bill 928), and signed into law by Governor Wes Moore. The legislation requires local school systems to establish policies governing the use of electronic communication devices during the academic school day by the 2027-28 school year.
Under the updated GCPS policy, JIK – Acceptable and Responsible Use of Technological Resources for Students, student cell phones must be stored and out of sight from bell to bell. Students may keep their phones in a backpack or locker, but phones should not be used during the school day.
The updated expectations apply throughout the academic school day, including instructional periods and other times such as lunch, class transitions, and other structured or unstructured learning experiences.
Why the Policy Is Changing
The updated policy is designed to comply with the legislation and to minimize distractions and support learning environments where students are empowered to remain focused, engaged, and connected to their teachers and classmates.
The message for the 2026-27 school year is simple: Phones stored. Minds engaged.
By keeping personal cell phones stored during the school day, GCPS is creating greater opportunities for students to participate in classroom learning, interact with peers, engage with teachers, and remain present in their school experience.
The updated policy also recognizes circumstances in which students may need access to an electronic device. Maryland law provides exceptions for certain circumstances, including documented accommodations related to a disability, documented health needs, and other circumstances identified in the law.
What Students and Families Need to Know
Beginning this school year on August 31, 2026:
- In grades PK3–6, cell phones are to be turned off and secured in a locker or backpack and not used during the school day.
- In grades 7–12, cell phones must remain secured and may not be used during the school day.
- Students who need to communicate with a parent or guardian during the school day should use their school’s established communication procedures.
- Staff will provide students with specific information about implementation and procedures at each school.
- Exceptions will be handled in accordance with district policy and applicable state requirements.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to review the updated expectations with their children before the first day of school and establish routines for storing personal devices. Links to the Policy and Procedure are available on Diligent at https://garrettcountyschools.community.diligentoneplatform.com/Portal/Policy.aspx.
The updated policy represents an evolution of GCPS’s existing approach to cell phone use, with a greater emphasis on consistency across the school day and creating an environment that prioritizes student learning and engagement.
Phones stored. Minds engaged. A new school year brings new opportunities to empower students to learn, connect, participate, and succeed.
