ANNAPOLIS, Maryland. – The Anne Arundel County Public School System released a video on August 21 announcing its new cell phone policy for students of all grades.

Reasons given for the changes to AACPS’s cell phone policy include distraction caused by phone use in class and filming of misbehavior such as fights by students.

Under these new policies, AACPS elementary and middle school students will not be allowed to bring their cell phones to school unless they are turned off or on silent for the entire school day. High school students will be allowed to use their phones during lunch, but they must be turned off or on silent at all other times.

School Superintendent Mark Bedell stated, “We would like to discuss changes to our cell phone policy today that are designed to maximize classroom focus and support the mental health of our students.” He continued, “The use of cell phones in class not only distracts the attention of the students using the phone from the lesson. It distracts others as well.”

When deciding on the best policy changes for cell phone use, AACPS sought input from all possible sources. “We wanted to make sure we were listening to all parts of our school system, so we made the changes we are implementing with input from students, staff, parents and community partners,” says Monique Jackson, Chief Officer of Student and Systemic Supports.

AACPS wants to make it clear to students and parents that this is not a total ban on cell phones. However, Mark Bedell said, “If this doesn’t work, I will not hesitate to have further discussions with the school board and this community about a total ban.”

The new cell phone policies are now in effect at all public schools in Anne Arundel County.

About Anne Arundel County Public Schools:
The AACPS is the organization that manages all public schools in Anne Arundel County. AACPS staff and administrators are committed to advancing student success in and outside of the classroom.

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