New provincial cell phone policy

On August 6, the Government of Saskatchewan announced province-wide limits to the use of cell phones by students in all kindergarten to Grade 12 schools. The intent is to limit distractions in the classroom. In guidelines provided to the school division, the Ministry of Education states, “This policy is intended to lessen the negative impacts of personal electronic devices in classrooms and support teachers and school staff in promoting productive classroom environments.” 

Effective Tuesday, September 3, 2024, the use of personal electronic devices by students will not be permitted during instructional time. Students must keep their electronic devices turned off or on silent and stored in their lockers, bags or out of sight on their person. While at school, personal technology remains the responsibility of the owner. 

Members of the division’s senior administration are working on administrative policies and procedures, and details will be shared later in September. 

Exemptions may be granted for medically necessary accommodations or specific learning needs. The process to request exemptions will be outlined later in September.

High school teachers will be able to seek permission from their school administrator to allow students to use cell phones during class for a specific instructional purpose. 

As always, if you need to get in touch with your child during school hours, you can call the school office. A list of schools and phone numbers is available at www.gscs.ca/schools

Please make sure your school has up-to-date contact information for parents/caregivers and emergency contacts in case school staff needs to reach someone in an emergency. 

Thank you in advance for your patience and cooperation as we navigate this new provincial policy together. 

If you have any questions, please contact your school principal.