Ontario Warns of Disciplinary Actions for Students Who Violate Classroom Cellphone Ban

Jill Dunlop made these remarks on Thursday at a school in Caledon, Ontario, regarding the provincewide ban announced earlier in the spring, which will take effect for the 2024-2025 school year.

“This represents a cultural shift in the classroom,” Dunlop stated.

“To ensure students stay focused on learning rather than on cellphone notifications, we’re implementing a ban on cellphones in classrooms,” Dunlop explained. “By eliminating distractions, we aim to foster student success and help them concentrate on the material being taught.”

The new policy mandates that phones be kept in silent mode and out of sight during school hours. This rule will apply uniformly across all public schools in Ontario.

For students from kindergarten through Grade 6, the ban will be in place throughout the entire school day. Older students, in grades 7 and above, will be permitted to use their devices between classes and during lunch but must adhere to the ban during instructional periods.

Exceptions may be made for students who seek permission to make a call, such as to a parent, but the default expectation is that phones will be kept away. Teachers and classroom assistants will also be expected to refrain from using their phones, except for tasks directly related to their work.

Regarding enforcement, Dunlop emphasized that disciplinary measures are in place for educators.

“If students do not comply with the rules, they will be asked to place their cellphone in a designated safe space within the classroom,” Dunlop said.

“If they still fail to comply, they will be sent to the principal’s office. We have disciplinary procedures in place, and we will support principals in enforcing these measures.”

Dunlop also reiterated the ban on vaping products in schools. Teachers are instructed to confiscate any vape products found in students’ possession and to promptly notify their parents.