New rules that ban the use of cellphones in Ontario classrooms are coming into effect this week, but critics say they’re unsure how the regulations will be enforced or how effective they’ll be.
While the province had already put in restrictions on cellphones in 2019, the new rules set more specific guidelines that are broken down by grade.
Ontario students in kindergarten to Grade 6 must keep cellphones silenced and out of sight for the entire school day.
Students in Grade 7 to 12 cannot use cellphones during class time, with a few exceptions.
David Mastin, first vice-president of the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario, says educators need more clarity on enforcing the new rules and the supports available for staff.
He also says the new rules do little to address deeper issues in schools, such as cyberbullying, harassment and violence.
Written by: The Canadian Press
