Upper School

Why We're Creating a Digital-Device-Free Environment

Beginning in the 2025-2026 academic year, our Upper School will maintain a digital-device-free environment during school hours (8:10 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.). A digital device includes cell phones and wearable smart devices.

These expectations—shaped by extensive research, consultation with leading education experts, and close examination of successful policies at peer institutions nationwide—represent our unwavering commitment to creating an optimal environment where every student can learn, grow, and thrive.

• Fostering authentic interpersonal connections: Face-to-face communication builds stronger relationships and social skills that technology cannot replace
• Enhancing academic engagement: Research shows the mere presence of phones reduces cognitive capacity and attention
• Safeguarding mental health: Reducing social media exposure during school hours promotes healthier self-image and emotional well-being
• Developing self-regulation: Learning to disconnect builds essential life skills that extend beyond our campus
• Preparing students for future success: Our LifeReady philosophy emphasizes developing the whole person with balanced technology use

All students must store digital devices (including cell phones and smartwatches) in secure, individually-assigned locations at the start of each school day. These devices may be retrieved only at the conclusion of the academic day, with exceptions for scheduled early departures or appointments.

To further eliminate digital distractions, students using laptops, tablets, and similar devices during school hours must disable notifications and refrain from accessing social media platforms.

Senior Transition Program

In alignment with our goal of preparing students for life beyond McDonogh, seniors may earn the privilege of keeping their digital devices during the spring semester. This graduated approach helps build the self-regulation skills they'll need in college and beyond. 

Practical Considerations

• Parent/guardian-student communication: For urgent messages during school hours, the Upper School Office will be the main point of contact. Students will maintain access to email through their laptops.
• Medical accommodations: Students with documented medical needs requiring device access will receive appropriate accommodations through our infirmary team.
• Crisis response: Our safety protocols have been thoroughly reviewed and enhanced to ensure effective communication during emergencies.