The Provincial Government is proposing an updated Personal Electronic Devices Policy for English K-12 public schools to further support a positive teaching and learning environment for students and teachers in Newfoundland and Labrador. The Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, Minister of Education, is encouraging school communities to review the proposed policy and share feedback.
The proposed Responsible Use of Personal Electronic Devices Policy will reduce the impact of inappropriate personal electronic device usage, such as cell phones, on learning.
Under the policy:
- Students in grades K-6 will not be permitted to have personal electronic devices in schools; and,
- Students in grade 7 to level 4 who bring a personal electronic device to school must switch it off and store out of sight.
The directive is proposed to apply to all regular school hours, including recess and lunch breaks.
Exceptions to the policy may be provided for medical reasons such as glucose monitoring and for students with documented and verified needs. Limited exceptions may also apply for specific instructional and educational needs.
The full proposed policy is available on the NLSchools website here.
School communities, including parents/guardians, teachers, and grade 7 to level 4 students, are encouraged to share feedback by December 6. It is anticipated that a final decision related to the policy will be made in time for implementation upon return to classes after the holiday break on January 6, 2025. Feedback on the policy can be provided here.
Quote
“Inappropriate use of cell phones, smart watches, and other personal electronic devices is causing challenges within K-12 schools. We must ensure that students have a safe environment that is conducive to consistent, undistracted learning. This proposed policy will help create a more positive educational environment. I encourage all teachers, parents, guardians and students to review the policy and share their feedback.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education
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Learn more
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