WRDSB has taken steps to ensure that students are better supported in focusing on their learning and well-being at school.
Supporting Student Learning
We know that cell phones/smartwatches are a significant distraction for students at school, especially in the classroom. They can lead to students being disengaged from their learning and isolated from their peers next to them.
What Changed?
As September 2024, student access to social media platforms on school networks and school devices was restricted. The Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) Code of Conduct requires students to refrain from using their cell phones/smartwatches at all times during the instructional day. Exceptions include if use is:
- For educational purposes, if explicitly permitted by the educator
- For health and medical purposes
- To support special education needs, as documented in the student’s IEP
Families and caregivers can reach their child at any time by calling the school’s main office.
Smart watches have many of the same functions as cellphones including GPS tracking and communication between parent and child before and after school. As with cellphones, smart watches should be turned off throughout the entire school day or on “school mode” (a feature parents can set for students so the device will not be active during the school day). Students are asked to keep watches off or leave them at home. Students can use the school phone in the office to connect with parents as needed during the day. Please support us in maintaining the learning environment by keeping devices at home or talking about how to have mobile devices off and away during the school day.
Building on Established Methods at WRDSB Schools
These changes were based on frameworks developed at a number of WRDSB schools in recent years. In partnership with students and families, these schools implemented changes to student use of cell phones and mobile devices. Staff, students, and families all noticed positive impacts to student achievement and well-being as a result.
Evidence-Based Approach
Our approach to changing expectations regarding cell phones and smartwatches is rooted in research and evidence. It aligns with the findings of staff at schools where similar policies have already been introduced. They’ve noted a positive influence on student achievement and well-being.
A 2022 study by Melissa Huey and David Giguere found that students who did not access their phones during classes had:
- Higher levels of course comprehension
- Lower levels of anxiety
- Higher levels of mindfulness
- This means being aware and present during class.
Guidance from the Ministry of Education
The steps we’ve taken at all WRDSB schools align with Ministry of Education guidelines. They required school boards to implement a policy limiting the use of cell phones at school as of September 2024.
Next Steps
We invite families and caregivers to talk to their children about these expectations for students.
Technology can be a distraction in the learning environment. Cellphones are kept in student backpacks, and smartwatches should be locked to ensure no texts or gaming occurs during the instructional day.