Cellphone restrictions coming to Ontario schools

Restrictions on cellphones in Ontario classrooms will come into effect in November, Education Minister Stephen Lecce says.

The move — which still allows teachers to let students use their phones for educational purposes — was announced earlier this year by Lecce’s predecessor, Lisa Thompson.

It will be in place as of Nov. 4 but will exempt special-needs students or those who need a phone for medical reasons.

During education consultations launched last fall by the province, respondents overwhelmingly supported some limits on cellphone use in classrooms.

“When in class, students should be focused on their studies, not their social media,” Lecce said in a written statement on Thursday.

“That’s why we are restricting cellphones and other personal mobile devices in the classroom while making sure technology is available to help students achieve success in the digital economy and modern workforce.”

However, critics have said teachers already have the right to limit phone use in class.

They have also argued it is unenforceable, will create conflict between teachers and students, and raise issues about who is responsible for confiscated devices.

Teachers’ unions say it’s best that students learn how to use their devices responsibly.

“Teachers already decide when to ban cellphones in the classroom and when to use devices as an educational tool,” said NDP education critic Marit Stiles.

“I don’t know why (Premier) Doug Ford thinks he’s better at being a teacher than actual teachers.”