Dear Parents and Guardians,
New Cell Phone Policy Effective September 2024
We are writing to inform you about important updates regarding cell phones and social media use in our schools. The Ministry of Education has directed all schools across Ontario to implement new cell phone rules and block social media sites this school year. The OCSB rules for mobile devices can be viewed in the Safe, Inclusive, and Accepting Schools Code of Conduct policy.
Benefits of Phone-Free Schools
Recent research has shown that removing cell phones from K-12 classrooms has resulted in fewer distractions, decreased cyberbullying, increased student engagement, and reduced stress levels.
How can I contact my child during the day?
Parents/Guardians can contact their child during the school day by calling the main office. Contacting your child during class time distracts them from their school work and the needed in-person interaction with their peers and educators. If your child needs to contact you during the school day, they can access a phone in the school office.
New Cell Phone Policy Details
For Grades K-6:
During the School Day: Students must keep their cell phones silenced and out of sight all day.
When They Can Use Them: Cell phones can only be used during the school day if a teacher allows them for learning, for health reasons, or to support special education needs.
For Grades 7-12:
During Class Time: Students must keep their cell phones silenced and out of sight during class time.
When Students Can Use Them: Cell phones can only be used during class if a teacher allows them for learning, health reasons, or to support special education needs. They may be used outside instructional times, for example, during lunch, before, and after school.
If Cell Phones Are Used Inappropriately:
Grades K-6: Students who misuse their phones must give them to a staff member to be kept in a storage area.
Grades 7-12: Students who misuse their phones will be asked to place them in a designated storage area. If students refuse to store their phones when asked, they will be referred to the Principal or Vice-Principal, who may assign school consequences.
Updated Social Media Restrictions Effective September 2024
The Ministry of Education now requires that social media sites such as TikTok, Facebook, and Snapchat be blocked on school networks and on all Board-owned student devices. However, we recognize that students can still access social media sites using their own devices and/or data plans.
As part of our Samaritans on the Digital Road digital citizenship program, we will continue to educate students on the risks associated with social media, the humane use of technology, and using technology for good.
Thank You
We appreciate your understanding and support as our school staff implement these new rules. Our goal is to continue to create a respectful and productive learning environment for all students while mitigating some of the negative impacts that cell phones and social media have had on children.
Tom D’Amico, Director of Education
