New Salad Bars, Stadium, Buildings, Schedules At Prince George's Schools

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, MD — The first day of school for Prince George's County public school students has arrived.

The first day of class for all students is today, Aug. 25. Parents and guardians should be aware of a few new policies and rules in effect this year at Prince George's County Public Schools.

New cell phone policy in the works

In response to the Maryland Phone-Free Schools Act, which took effect July 1, Prince George’s County Public Schools will start developing a comprehensive cell phone policy this fall with implementation planned for the 2027-2028 school year.

Approximately 20 PGCPS schools currently have cell phone management strategies in place, the school district stated.

"Their experiences and lessons learned will help inform the development of the districtwide policy," Dr. Shawn Joseph told Patch. "PGCPS believes effective policies are strengthened by the voices and experiences of our school communities."

Since 2024, teacher, principal, student and parent advisory groups have engaged in ongoing discussions about cell phone use in schools, Joseph said. While stakeholder surveys have not indicated strong support for a blanket cell phone ban, the district "recognizes the importance of addressing the impact of cell phones on learning and the school environment," Joseph said.

"As we develop the new policy, PGCPS will continue to engage educators, students, families and other stakeholders to ensure the approach reflects the needs of our schools and supports focused, safe and productive learning environments for all students," Joseph told Patch.

PGCPS’ current expectations for the use of electronic devices are outlined in the Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook, which states that "persistently having out or using a PED (personal electronic device) without permission, or inappropriately using a PED after being warned. Devices include cell phones, music players, tablets, electronic gaming devices and other portable electronic devices."

"School administrators also have the flexibility to establish additional cell phone restrictions based on the needs of their individual school communities," Joseph said.

Clear backpacks

Clear backpacks are required for students in grades 9th through 12th and those enrolled in the non-traditional programs (North, South, and Middle).

Students can carry a small, non-clear pouch for personal items. The clear backpack policy for middle school students in grades 6th through 8th is determined by each school, officials noted.

Metal detectors

Security enhancement devices, a.k.a. metal detectors, are currently installed at all high schools. The devices are portable and also are used at entry points for sporting events in the gymnasiums and on athletic fields.

This equipment also is installed at 14 middle schools and two kindergarten through 8th grade academies, Accokeek and Colin Powell.

New schools, bell times, stadium, salad bar

Through Phase 2 of the school district's Blueprint Schools construction program, two new elementary schools will open for the new school year - Margaret Brent in New Carrollton and Templeton in Landover.

The district also has added five minutes to the end of the instructional day across all schools.

"This small operational adjustment keeps the district in full compliance with Maryland state instructional-hour requirements. It creates a critical time buffer to absorb weather delays, early dismissals and winter disruptions without sacrificing classroom time," Joseph told Patch.

Frederick Douglass High School kicks off the school year with a new athletic stadium with a new turf field, track, bleachers, press box, fencing, lighting, scoreboard and more. Two similar projects will be built this school year at DuVal and Crossland high schools, school officials said.

In partnership with Prince George’s Community College, Bowie State University and University of Maryland Global Campus, high schools will have additional opportunities to earn college credits before graduation.

"Dual enrollment allows eligible students to take college courses at no cost while still enrolled in high school," Joseph said.

Also, a new salad bar option is being tested at the school district's Innovation and Performance Area Schools' cafeterias. A list of those schools can be found here.

Related:

Key Dates For 2026-2027 School Year At Prince George's Co. Public Schools