Montgomery County considers phone-free schools following Los Angeles success

Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) is considering a bold move towards creating phone-free schools, a topic that sparked passionate discussions during the Board of Education meeting on February 20, 2025. Advocates for the policy argue that eliminating cell phones from classrooms could significantly enhance the learning environment and reduce distractions.

A key speaker highlighted the pressing need for enforcement of existing phone policies, stating, "Teachers and administrators should not be individually liable for phones that they confiscate." The speaker emphasized that the current system, where students are allowed to use phones during passing periods, wastes valuable instructional time—up to 22% of class time is lost to managing phone use. The call for a complete ban on phones during school hours, including lunch, was met with enthusiasm, citing successful implementations in other districts, such as the recent decision by the Los Angeles County Unified School District to go phone-free.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of such a policy, with advocates arguing that it represents a generational opportunity to make "smart future-focused choices" that could lead to long-term benefits for students. The speaker pointed out that with over 450,000 students in Montgomery County, a phone-free policy could foster a more focused and engaged learning atmosphere.

In addition to the phone policy discussions, the meeting included updates on facility assessments and maintenance planning. Board members expressed gratitude for the participation of students and staff, acknowledging their commitment to advocating for improvements in their schools. The board is set to continue discussions on these critical issues, with the next business meeting scheduled for March 18, 2025.

As MCPS navigates these significant changes, the potential for a phone-free environment could redefine the educational landscape, prioritizing student engagement and academic success.