June 6, 2025
The District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) mission is to ensure that students reach their full potential through rigorous and joyful learning experiences provided in a nurturing environment. A critical step toward this mission is making sure that instructional time is focused on learning and that the school environment fosters opportunities for students to build healthy relationships with their teachers and peers.
To support these goals, beginning in the 2025-26 school year, DCPS students are prohibited from accessing a cell phone or personal electronic communication device during the bell-to-bell school day when on DCPS school grounds, except for the permitted uses described in the policy. If a cell phone or personal electronic communication device is brought to school, it must be turned off and stored during the bell-to-bell school day while on DCPS school grounds. Each school must establish a system for cell phone and personal electronic communication device storage during the bell-to-bell school day and implement it in a consistent manner for its students.
The policy outlines permitted device uses. For example, school staff can give permission for students to use personal devices for educational purposes and grant exceptions for students to use personal devices for extenuating circumstances (e.g., students who are parents of young children) and if required to manage a documented health need. The policy also establishes expectations for schools to share protocols for routine and emergency communication among students, families, and educators.
Interested in learning more about the rationale behind this policy?
The DCPS Student Cell Phone and Personal Device Policy aligns with recommendations from the DC Deputy Mayor for Education’s 2024 School Safety Report, specifically Priority 3 - Keep the Small Stuff From Escalating. Community members are encouraged to read the full report at dme.dc.gov/safetyreport.
The policy reflects a growing body of research and feedback from educators, families, and mental health professionals about the challenges that can arise from significant cell phone and social media use among children and adolescents. Check out this infographic from the Phone-Free Schools Movement for more details.
