ST. PAUL – As students get settled into their new classes, they are also getting into a new routine that involves using fewer electronic devices for some.
In June, the Government of Alberta banned the use of electronic devices like mobile phones during class hours in kindergarten to Grade 12 schools, effective at the beginning of the 2024-25 school year. Electronic devices banned include smart phones, smart watches, and headphones.
“Alberta school authorities currently have the autonomy to set their own policy on how students use cellphones in schools. Policies vary widely across the province,” reads information from the government of Alberta.
Peter Barron, superintendent with St. Paul Education, says he supports regulations that limit the use of cellphones in classrooms.
Cellphones can be a significant distraction and can impact the focus and achievement of students, he believes.
“The ministerial order allows for necessary exceptions, such as medical needs, which ensures flexibility where required,” adds Barron.
“It's important to note that many schools have already adopted similar policies to manage cellphone use and create a more focused learning environment. Each school has the autonomy to develop specific procedures that prioritize student learning and well-being, and this aligns with the broader goal of minimizing distractions to support academic success,” he says.
Right now, schools within St. Paul Education are following the guidelines set by the ministerial order to ensure consistency across the school division.
While schools are provided autonomy of how to restrict the use of electronic devices, guidelines from the ministerial order requires schools to at least limit the use of personal mobile devices during instructional time, and limit access to social media on school networks and devices.
“However, schools continue to adapt these regulations in ways that suit the unique needs of their students and staff. Teachers and school leaders are committed to creating a balanced environment that reduces distractions while maintaining open lines of communication with parents and students,” says Barron.
Emergency situations
Among the foremost concerns expressed by Albertans regarding the ban is how schools would deal with the restrictions in cases of emergency situations.
For St. Paul Education, Barron says students generally would not need to use their phones in emergencies, as staff are always available to assist.
“In rare instances where direct communication is necessary, staff are trained to ensure that students can safely connect with their families or emergency services as needed,” he says, explaining the school board’s priority is to ensure student safety and well-being.
Community feedback
Barron says the school division is also working to develop a more detailed administrative procedure, which would reflect both the ministerial order and community feedback.
“We anticipate rolling out these procedures in the fall, following consultations with parents, staff, and students to ensure the policy meets the needs of everyone involved,” he explains.
While formal feedback from parents and students has not yet been collected, Barron says the school division will soon begin consultations to gather input as they refine the policy.
Community feedback and perspectives “will be integral in shaping how the policy is implemented in the long term,” explains Barron.
