Public school division updates cellphone policy, as directed

By Medicine Hat News on August 30, 2024.

The Medicine Hat Public School Division has released new guidelines on the use of personal mobile devices, social media and wi-fi, and will be sending those guidelines to families before the first day of class.

Local school divisions have been asked by the province to develop their own policies and producers for cellphone use after it announced restrictions in June that will prevent students from using personal devices during class time, with the exception for medical needs or in any emergency situation.

A statement released Thursday by acting superintendent Tracy Hensel says the division has worked closely with school administrators to develop a set of guidelines that will restrict cellphones, smartphones and headphones or earbuds during instruction and must be kept on silent mode and stored out of sight in school-approved locations, including backpacks and lockers.

“Cellphones and social media add unwanted challenges and can impair our ability to provide positive, inclusive and safe environments where learning, focus, safety, community and belonging are prioritized,” states the release.

Exceptions can occur when teachers indicate to students specific learning situations that support cellphone, smartphone, smartwatch or headphone use.

As well, public schools will now only allow registered learning devices on campus including tablets, laptops and Chromebooks on the ‘Bring Your Own Device’ wi-fi network. Any personal devices including smartwatches will not be allowed to access the BYOD network except for specialized learning or medical needs.

All social media sites will be blocked on this network and on all school learning devices.

“If a student chooses to engage on social media during the school day; they will have to do so using data.”

The division says the goal is to implement guidelines that promote responsible and healthy mobile device usage while minimizing distractions and enhancing wellbeing.

“Balancing technology with traditional learning methods has always been our priority.”

Parents and guardians are encouraged to review all changes and guidelines that will be provided before class begins on Sept. 3.

“We understand that these changes may present some concerns, and believe in implementing these guidelines with care and compassion. We will work with students to develop healthy and responsible habits and ensure technology enhances, rather than hinders, their educational experience.”

As technology continues to drive changes in the classroom the division will continue to support its use for learning as students between Grade 3-12 are encouraged to bring a learning device like a laptop, Chromebook or tablet that will be allowable only for education purposes.

“We strive to provide safe and caring school communities where students can learn the academic, social and emotional skills needed to transition to thriving adults.”

The division has provided a detailed list of FAQs online that can be accessed from the ‘Division News’ tab at mhpsd.ca.