LA PLATA, Md. — Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) is making major changes to its student laptop program starting in the 2025–26 school year. In a May 15 message to families, the school system announced it will scale back device access for younger students to reduce screen time and cut rising technology costs.
CCPS first implemented its one-to-one device model in 2020 using pandemic relief funds. After reviewing the program, the school system will transition to a tiered, grade-based technology approach beginning in the 2025–26 school year.
Pre-K and Kindergarten: Classrooms will continue using shared iPads — five for pre-K and 10 for kindergarten — with one device assigned to each teacher.
Grades 1–2: One laptop will be assigned for every two students. Devices will remain in the classroom.
Grades 3–5: Students will be assigned individual devices for use in the classroom only. Devices will not go home unless a parent formally requests one for instructional purposes. Approval will be granted on a case-by-case basis through the school’s request process.
Grades 6–8: Students will use shared devices at school. Similar to elementary grades, students may request to check out a device for home use if it is needed for learning purposes. Parental requests must follow the same procedure.
Grades 9–12: All high school students will be assigned a personal device for both in-school and at-home use. Students may return their CCPS device and use a personal laptop or tablet under the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy, though smartphones are not considered acceptable instructional devices. All students must still use a CCPS-issued device for standardized testing.
Device collection will begin soon at elementary and middle schools. High school students will retain their devices unless they are graduating or not returning in the fall.
Summer Programs: Device Access by Grade
As part of its updated technology procedures, Charles County Public Schools has outlined device usage for students participating in summer programs:
- High school students attending summer school may bring a personal device but must first return their CCPS-issued device in order to access the school’s BYOD network.
- Middle school students will be issued devices for in-school use. Families can request a device for home use during the summer school registration process.
- Students in Extended School Year (ESY) programs will have access to devices during the school day only.
- Rising high school freshmen participating in AP boot camps can request a device from their assigned high school or bring their own, following BYOD guidelines.
For more information on device request procedures, BYOD policies or required accessories, visit www.ccboe.com.
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