Students Going Back-to-Basics with Fewer Distractions

Today, our government announced Ontario is investing $47.5 million to support safe and healthy learning, along with implementing new provincewide measures taking effect on September 1, 2024 to directly counter the alarming rise of vaping and cellphone distractions in schools.

The new rules will help combat the negative impact mobile devices, social media and vaping are having on academic achievement, mental health and physical well-being in York-Simcoe and across Ontario.

Students in JK – grade 6 will be required to keep phones on silent and out of sight for the entire school day, unless explicitly permitted by an educator.

For students in grades 7 – 12, cell phones will not be permitted during class time unless explicitly directed by the educator.

Social media websites will be removed from all school networks and devices, and report cards will include comment on students’ distraction levels in class.

In addition to banning e-cigarettes in schools and school-related settings, Ontario is strengthening mandatory learning on cannabis, vaping and digital citizenship.

We’re excited for the year ahead where students can look forward to uninterrupted learning, extra-curriculars and a back-to-basics, modernized curriculum that will set them up for success.

Learn More: https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/1004987/ontario-students-going-back-to-basics-with-fewer-distractions-this-fall