Overview

Classes should begin with phones put away.

Students Grade 7 and above may not use cellphones or other mobiles devices during class time without the explicit permission of their teacher.

Students Grade 6 and below may not use cellphones or other mobile devices at school during the school day without the permission of a teacher.

We’ve updated our provincial Code of Conduct with stronger rules to help students focus on learning at school. The new provincial Code of Conduct will come into effect September 1st, 2024.

We are requiring school boards to:

  • have a policy explaining how they will enforce mobile device restrictions
  • send parents and students a reminder of their policy about cellphones and mobile devices every year

This supports student achievement and well-being by:

  • keeping students focused on learning by removing distractions
  • promoting mental health

School boards, school authorities and provincial and demonstration schools have their own codes of conduct that must be consistent with our provincial Code of Conduct.

Mobile devices in schools

A mobile device is any personal electronic device that can be used to communicate or access the internet, such as a laptop, cellphone, tablet or smart watch.

Students Grade 7 and above may not use mobile devices during class time except in certain cases at the discretion of their teacher. This restriction applies to all mobile devices.

Students Grade 6 and below may not use mobile devices at school during the school day, except in certain cases at the discretion of a teacher.

Students may keep their cellphone, tablet or smart watch with them, but they must do all of the following:

  • turn it off — or set it to silent mode
  • store it out of view (for example, in a bag or pocket)

Consequences

Students are responsible for their personal mobile device, how they use it and the consequences of not following the school board’s policy.

Your child may face consequences if they use their cellphone or mobile device inappropriately.

If an educator sees a mobile device that is not stored out of view, they will ask it to be handed in for the class (Grades 7-12) or for the day (Grades k-6). The student must place the device in a storage area in a location designated by the educator or principal.

If the student does not hand in their device when required, they will be sent to the principal’s office. Principals will review each situation and decide the appropriate response.

Any disciplinary action must be consistent with our provincial Code of Conduct and progressive discipline policy.

Local rules

Your school board or school may have a policy with more consequences and limits on using mobile devices at school (for example, in other school areas or while on school trips). This policy must set out clear roles and responsibilities for students and staff.

Talk to your child’s school or school board to learn more.

When students can use a mobile device

If your child is in Grade 7 or older, they can bring a mobile device to school and use it during recess or lunch. If your child is in Grade 6 or younger, they can bring a mobile device to school, but will only be able to use it before and after school.

They can use their mobile device during learning time only when:

  • a teacher says to use it as part of learning, for example, doing research or visiting a specific website
  • it’s needed for a health or medical reason
  • it supports special education needs

If your child has a medical condition

Your school must provide an exception if your child needs to use a mobile device to support, monitor or regulate their health or medical condition.

What parents and guardians can do

You can teach your child about finding a healthy balance in using technology by limiting screen time at home. You can also:

School Mental Health Ontario also has resources to help you manage your child’s screen time.