Published on 2024-08-26 23:00:15 +0000 UTC
August 26, 2024
RE: Provincial Cell Phone Policy
Dear Parents and Caregivers,
I hope this message finds you well as we prepare for the upcoming school year. I am writing to inform you of an important new policy introduced by the Ministry of Education regarding the use of personal electronic devices, such as cell phones, in K-12 classrooms.
Starting in the 2024-2025 school year, all schools within the Northwest School Division will be required to develop and implement school-specific policies that align with this provincial mandate. This policy will limit the use of personal electronic devices during instructional time across all grade levels, from Kindergarten to Grade 12. The intent behind this policy is to create a safe, focused, and effective learning environment for all students, free from the distractions and potential negative impacts of electronic device usage.
While the use of these devices will be generally limited, there will be some allowances for students in Grades 9 to 12 if a clear instructional purpose is identified and approved by school administration. Additionally, exceptions will be made for students with medical or additional needs that require the use of a personal electronic device.
Each school within our division will be developing its own policy in alignment with these provincial guidelines, and we are committed to ensuring that these policies are communicated clearly to all families. You can expect to receive detailed information about your child’s school policy early in the school year, including the expectations for students, responses to not following the policy, and any specific procedures that will be followed.
We understand that this may be a significant change for students and families, and we are here to support you through this transition. Our goal is to ensure that all students can thrive in a learning environment that promotes focus, safety, and well-being.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to your child’s school administration.
Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your continued partnership in supporting your child’s education.
Sincerely,
Duane Hauk
Director of Education
Northwest School Division