B.C. To Restrict Use Of Mobile Phones In Public Schools

Beginning this Fall, students will be restricted on when they can use cell phones and other personal digital devices during the school day.

The new restrictions are to follow the provincial government’s directive that all school districts must have cell phone restrictions in place by July 1st.

SD72 Superintendent Geoff Manning recently presented the board with the operational procedure which outlines a tiered approach to the use of personal digital devices to help ensure an age appropriate use that is reflective of the students’ developmental age, promote online safety and support focused learning environments.

There will be some exceptions allowed for accessibility and other medical accommodations, but generally, at elementary schools, cell phones and other personal digital devices will not be allowed. If brought to school, they will have to be kept in the student’s backpack or bag and can only be used with permission from the principal or teacher.

Middle school students will be allowed to bring cell phones or other personal digital devices, but they will only be allowed to use them with permission from the principal or teacher, even while on recess and lunch breaks.

Secondary students will be allowed to bring cell phones and other personal digital devices and use them during breaks and lunch, but not during class time unless they are given permission by the principal or teacher.