New cellphone guidelines issued at Anne Arundel public schools [Video]

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, Md. — Anne Arundel County officials have announced a new cellphone policy scheduled to go into effect at the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year. 

In a press release issued by Superintendent Dr. Mark Bedell, he says the decision comes as part of a move to maximize focus on instruction and improve student mental health. The guidelines are different based on school grades. 

“I want to be clear that this is not a ban on cell phones like other districts across the country have done,” Dr. Bedell said. “These are changes in guidelines as part of an effort to refocus precious time on instruction, which is something everyone we spoke with agreed is critically important. I have complete faith that our students, provided with the right structure, will do the right thing. However, …