Last week the Montgomery County Council reviewed the revised MCPS Personal Mobile Devices (PMD) regulation that includes cell phones, smart watches tablets, and more. Our very own “Mr. MoCo” Alex Tsironis, a former MCPS teacher, went on FOX 5’s DMV Zone to discuss upcoming policy scheduled to begin during the 2025/2026 school year.
The clips discussing the policy, with comments that have been brought up by teachers, parents, students, and other stakeholders can be seen below. Additionally, a poll is available in the Instagram post below to share your thoughts on the policy. MCPS previously shared the following on what families and students need to know about the updated policy:
Before and After School: Students in all grade levels may use their personal mobile devices before the school day begins and after it ends.
Elementary and Middle Schools: During the school day—including class time, lunch and transitions between periods—students will need to keep their personal devices turned off and stored away.
High Schools: High school students may use their personal devices during lunch and between classes, but not during instructional time.
On School Buses: Students are permitted to use their devices while riding MCPS buses.
Student Responsibility: Students are expected to manage their devices responsibly, making sure they are turned off and out of sight when use is not permitted.
Discipline and Expectations: If a student misuses their device, consequences will follow a progressive approach outlined in the updated Student Code of Conduct, which will be released in the summer, and focuses on education and accountability. Updates to the MCPS Student Code of Conduct will clarify and re-establish expectations for student behavior. Learn more. Principals have the authority to allow limited cell phone use during class time if the use supports instruction.
Medical and Learning Accommodations: Students will continue to have access as documented in the 504 or Individualized Education Plan (IEP) that allows for personal mobile device use.
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