The Ontario government is implementing new measures to address the increasing issues of cell- phone use and vaping in schools across the province.
Education Minister Stephen Lecce announced the crackdown on distractions as part of the government’s back-to-basics plan to improve classroom focus and safety. Beginning in September, students from kindergarten to Grade 12 will face restrictions on cellphone use during instructional time, with phones required to be kept silent and out of sight unless permission is granted for use.
Under the new policy, students who fail to comply with cell phone rules may face consequences, including surrendering their devices or disciplinary action. The government aims to ensure consistency in enforcing these measures across all school boards in Ontario. Additionally, schools will have the authority to determine appropriate technology usage, with teachers, principals, and superintendents responsible for enforcing the policy.
In addition to addressing cell phone distractions, the government will implement a ban on vaping in all schools alongside tobacco, nicotine, and cannabis products. Students caught carrying such products will have them confiscated, and parents will be notified. The government has allocated $30 million from its 2024 budget to install vape detectors and other security upgrades in schools. These measures are intended to protect students from the harmful effects of vaping, which has become increasingly prevalent among youth in Grades 7 through 12, according to Dr. Kieran Moore, the province’s chief medical officer of health.