🚨 Big changes in #Olds and #Alberta schools! 🚫📱 No more cellphones or social media allowed! 😳📚 See how this impacts your kids! 👉 #BackToSchool #ParentAlert
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New Cellphone and Social Media Guidelines for Students as School Year Begins
As the new school year kicks off, students across the Chinook's Edge School Division (CESD) are adjusting to fresh rules concerning mobile devices and social media. The updated policies, effective from Tuesday, September 3rd, apply to all students from kindergarten to Grade 12 but come with varying degrees of flexibility based on grade levels.
Cellphone Ban in K-8, Controlled Use for High School Students
The provincial government's new directive mandates a ban on cellphone use during instructional time for all students. However, the implementation of these rules differs slightly for younger and older students.
For those in kindergarten through Grade 8, the rules are straightforward: no personal mobile devices are allowed at school during school hours. Jason Drent, Associate Superintendent of CESD, explained, "This aligns with research on devices being a source of distraction that affects student focus."
Meanwhile, high school students from Grades 9 to 12 face a slightly more flexible approach. "Although cellphones are still prohibited during class time, students can use them before school, during class transitions, at lunch, and after school," Drent noted. This flexibility is intended to support older students as they transition into adulthood, where communication tools play a vital role.
Social Media Access Banned Across All Grades
In addition to the cellphone rules, CESD has also prohibited access to social media platforms across all grades. "Our IT department is fully equipped to block social media on our networks," Drent stated, noting that the aim is to create a distraction-free learning environment. He also highlighted the potential reduction in cyberbullying incidents, which are often exacerbated by social media.
"We recognize that social media can have negative impacts on mental health, and we're committed to supporting our students when they face challenges," Drent added. The school division’s family wellness teams, administrators, and teachers are all geared up to assist students in navigating these changes.
Parents and Stakeholders to Play a Key Role
Parents and guardians have already received detailed communications about these new rules and what they mean for their children. Drent emphasized the importance of clarity: "We want to ensure that everyone understands the policies – no devices for K-8 students during school hours, and limited use for high school students."
The school division will closely monitor the implementation of these changes and gather feedback from parents, guardians, and other stakeholders before rolling out its own policy in January 2025. "We’re aligning with the government’s initial directive and will build on it with input from our community," Drent said.
Educators Optimistic About the Impact
Teachers and administrators throughout the CESD are hopeful that the new rules will help improve focus and engagement in the classroom. "These devices are incredibly powerful in diverting a student’s attention," Drent commented. "Removing them from the learning environment gives our educators a chance to engage more deeply with students and enhance learning opportunities."
As the school year begins under these new guidelines, the CESD remains committed to creating a positive and productive learning atmosphere, free from the distractions of personal devices and social media.