Posters promoting Montgomery County Public Schools’ new “No Cell, Bell to Bell” cellphone policy have begun appearing in schools ahead of the 2026-27 academic year.
“The posters are up, and the message is clear: No cell, bell to bell,” MCPS shared. “MCPS students in all grade levels will be expected to keep personal mobile devices put away from the first bell through dismissal.”
Under the new regulation, personal mobile devices must remain put away and unused throughout the entire academic day, including in classrooms, hallways, during lunch and at recess. Limited exceptions will apply.
The posters state that unauthorized cellphone use may result in disciplinary action under the MCPS Student Code of Conduct, including having the device taken away.
MCPS says the policy is intended to increase students’ focus on learning, reduce distractions, strengthen relationships and create a safer school environment.
The school system announced the new regulation earlier this month as Maryland school districts prepare to comply with a state requirement to establish policies limiting students’ use of personal mobile devices during the school day.
