Rules For Cell Phone Use, Backpacks At Harford Schools Have Changed

HARFORD COUNTY, MD — The rules impacting cell phones and backpacks have been changed a bit for the upcoming school year at Harford County Public Schools.

The school board approved the rule adjustments at its June meeting.

Students can take cell phones, smartwatches, headphones and other portable communication devices to school; however, their use is limited during the school day:

• Elementary school: Devices must be deactivated and stored in student bookbags upon arrival.

• Middle school: Devices must be deactivated and secured in lockers for the duration of the school day.

• High school: Devices must be kept in the student’s locker and deactivated during class time.

• Smartwatches and similar wearables may be worn but must remain deactivated at all grade levels.

The updated backpack and bag policy is as follows:

• Bookbags do not need to be clear, but they must be stored appropriately.

• Elementary school: Bookbags must be placed in designated classrooms or cubby areas upon arrival.

• Middle and high school: Bookbags must be stored in lockers during the school day.

• Students may carry a nontransparent bag no larger than 4.5x8.5-inch with them for personal hygiene purposes.

• Athletic bags and musical instrument cases at all grade levels must be taken directly to the appropriate storage areas upon arrival and not carried throughout the school day.

"Thank you for your partnership in helping maintain safe, organized and distraction-free schools," stated Aaron Poynton, president of the Board of Education of Harford County.

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