FREDERICK, Md. (7News) — As students across Frederick County, Maryland, return to class, they are also starting the school year under new restrictions on personal electronic devices.
The new policy requires students to keep cell phones, smartwatches and wireless earbuds off and out of sight from the first bell until dismissal.
That means students cannot use the devices between classes, during lunch or in other parts of the school during the academic day.
Devices must be shut down or placed in airplane or school mode and remain out of sight.
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There are exceptions for documented medical needs, IEP or 504 accommodations, and certain translation or caregiving needs.
Parents and students have expressed mixed feelings about the change, including concerns about staying connected while also recognizing the potential distraction devices can create in the classroom.
“I do think there are pros and cons. I think it’s nice from a parent perspective to have the peace of mind that your child has a device to reach you on throughout the day if they need to. In the world we live in today that does give us a little bit more peace of mind as a parent. But I also think it is quite a distraction for students who are supposed to be in class paying attention,” said Melody Selfridge-Castellanos of Frederick County PTA.
Students can use their devices before and after school, as well as on buses outside the academic school day.
Frederick County is implementing the restrictions ahead of a statewide deadline. Maryland’s new law requires school districts to have similar policies in place by the 2027-28 school year. Frederick County chose to begin its policy this school year.
Other large school systems in the region, including Montgomery County, Md., and Fairfax County in Virginia, also have bell-to-bell restrictions on personal electronic devices this school year.
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