Somerset County seeks input on student cell phone use, dress code policy surveys

SOMERSET COUNTY, Md. – Somerset County Public Schools officials want to hear community feedback in two new surveys.

Student Cell Phone Use Survey

The student cell phone use in schools survey seeks input on current practices and potential adjustments to how students’ cell phone use is managed during the school day.

“With technology evolving rapidly, we’re exploring the impact of cell phone use on students’ academic performance, their social interactions, and also classroom management for our staff. We’re seeking input to determine if our policies strike the right balance between access to technology and minimizing distractions,” said Victoria Green, Public Relations Supervisor and Public Information Officer for the school district.

Student Uniform and Dress Code Survey

The student uniform and dress code policy survey focuses on gathering perspectives about the current dress code policy, including the potential implementation of changes or updates.

“It’s part of teaching young people how to present themselves in different settings. We do have (dress codes) at all levels—elementary, middle, and high school,” Green said.

Somerset Wants to Hear From You

Green added community input is imperative in making the right decisions for the school district.

“We designed the surveys to ensure participation from a diverse group of stakeholders, including students, families, parents, guardians, teachers, and staff. Anybody can weigh in. We just ask that you be of the Somerset community,” said Green.

The deadline to provide feedback in the surveys is February 4th. Thus far, Green said the district has already gathered more than 740 responses.

“That’s a great response. Our community is pretty enthusiastic about it … Feedback is valuable to help us make decisions that serve our students and families,” Green said.

Looking Ahead

Any policy change decisions would ultimately be up to the Somerset County Board of Education.

“After the survey window closes, we are going to carefully review all of the results, and we will share them with the community along with any recommendations for policy adjustments. Our goal is to ensure that our decisions are going to align with our mission,” said Green.

To take the student cell phone use survey, click here. To participate in the student dress code survey, click here.