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The following email was sent to parents/guardians of students at Tamarac Education Centre in Port Hawkesbury this morning:
As you may be aware, the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development announced a Provincial Directive on Cell Phones in Schools on June 6, 2024. This directive recognizes the importance of maintaining a learning environment that is free from unnecessary distractions so that students can focus, feel safe and be successful in school.
As a school, we welcome this announcement as we know from experience that cell phones and other related devices are often a source of distraction. They are also known to contribute to feelings of anxiety, can be used to bully and negatively impact students’ overall feelings of well-being.
What does this mean for students at our school this year?
▪ Students may still carry a cell phone to and from school if necessary. Please note that students accept responsibility when bringing a cell phone to school. The school is not responsible for loss or damage.
▪ During class time student cell phones must be turned off and stored out of sight (locker or backpack). Backpacks are to be stored in lockers during instructional time (Gr 7 & 8) – locks to be provided by the school.
▪ Students in Grades PP-6 may not use their cell phone at any time during the day.
▪ Students in Grades 7 & 8 in our school are permitted to use their cell phones during recess and lunch.
▪ At no time are cell phones permitted in washrooms and change rooms.
▪ Parents and Guardians will need to call the office (902-625-6650) to pass along important messages as necessary.
Please note that exceptions to these requirements will accommodate documented individual programming requirements and/or medical condition monitoring when determined in consultation with the Student Planning Team, which includes parents/guardians. Example: student who uses phone to monitor insulin for diabetes.
What happens if a student does not follow these expectations?
| First Time |
Student reminded of directive and expected to turn off phone/put it away
|
| Second Time |
Student to leave device with the teacher until the end of class or break. Parent or guardian will be notified.
|
| Third Time |
Student referred to the office. The device will be left in the office for the day. Parent or guardian will be notified.
|
| Fourth Time |
Student referred to the office. The device will be held at office until a parent or guardian meets with Administration to retrieve the device. Parent or guardian will be notified.
|
Cell phones add considerable convenience to our day-to-day lives. However, we have seen that pervasive use can lead to distractions and concerning mental health outcomes. Our school will continue to educate and model appropriate, responsible use. Our staff will also model these expectations by only using personal cell phones when absolutely necessary for work purposes (office referrals, admin communications, etc.)
We are looking forward to partnering with parents and guardians to successfully implement this change in expectations because we believe strongly that it is in everyone’s best interest.
