By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
The Lambton Kent District School Board (LKDSB) and the St. Clair Catholic District School Board (SCCDSB) are rolling out new policies regarding the use of personal mobile devices and social networks in schools, effective September 1, 2024.
The updated guidelines aim to minimize distractions and promote a focused learning environment. Under the new rules, students will face restrictions on device use during class time, with exceptions for educational purposes. Social media use will be tightly regulated to ensure it does not interfere with academic activities.
Personal mobile devices are restricted during instructional time except for specific circumstances: educational purposes as directed by an educator, health or medical needs, or special education requirements. Cell phones, cameras, and other digital imaging or audio recording devices are always prohibited in change rooms and washrooms.
“Jordan Lee, an eighth-grade student from Tilbury, expressed a similar concern from a student’s perspective. “I get that phones can be distracting, but I hope the new rules won’t make it too hard for us to use them for research or projects. It would be okay if we could still use our phones for school-related tasks when necessary. It’s important to balance access with staying on task,” Lee said.
Mobile device use is generally not permitted during the school day for students in Grades 8 and below without educator permission, except for the aforementioned reasons. Students in Grades 9 and above must also obtain explicit consent from educators to use such devices during class time.
“We know that student learning improves when students are not distracted from their lessons,” said LKDSB Director John Howitt. “Breakfast and snack programs help to remove the distraction of hunger, just as limiting the access to cell phones and mobile devices helps to remove the distractions they cause.”
Personal mobile devices must be turned off or set to silent mode and stored out of view. Educators who observe a mobile device that is not stored properly will address the issue with the student and may request that the device be handed in for the class (Grades 9-12) or for the day (Grades K-8). Students are required to place their devices in a designated storage area specified by the educator or principal.
SCCDSB Director of Education Scott Johnson emphasized, “Using a cell phone during instructional time or other restricted periods in school is a teachable moment. By addressing these moments, we show students that their engagement matters.”
Implementation strategies may vary by school and classroom, including designating spaces for storing mobile devices or using lockers, numbered racks, or lock boxes. Parents and guardians are encouraged to contact school offices to address any urgent or unexpected issues with their children.
“It’s about developing an understanding and demonstrating that their educators genuinely care about their presence and participation in the classroom,” Mr Johnson added.
Mark Davis, a parent of a school-aged daughter, said he supports the new policies on mobile device use in schools. “It’s clear that these changes aim to reduce distractions and improve focus, which is essential for my child’s learning,” he said.
Principals will outline clear expectations for students, educators, and families before the school year begins. Additionally, school boards are required to restrict access to social media platforms on school networks and devices, allowing use only for educational purposes as directed by educators. Schools will establish protocols for exceptions related to pedagogical or work-related purposes.
“However, I hope the schools will ensure that the rules are enforced fairly and that students can still use their devices for educational purposes when needed. Communication between schools and parents will be key to making this transition smooth and effective,” Davis said.
