Calgary, AB – As the new school year approaches, many students and parents are wondering how the recent cellphone ban in Alberta will be enforced in schools. The ban, which was announced by the provincial government in March, prohibits the use of cellphones during instructional time in all Alberta schools.
To address this issue, Calgary’s two largest school boards, the Calgary Board of Education (CBE) and the Calgary Catholic School District (CCSD), have implemented their own policies and procedures for enforcing the ban.
The CBE has stated that they will be following the guidelines set by the provincial government, which allows for exceptions in certain situations such as for educational purposes or for students with special needs. The board has also emphasized the importance of educating students on responsible cellphone use and the consequences of not following the ban.
Similarly, the CCSD has also adopted the provincial guidelines and has added that they will be working closely with teachers and parents to ensure the ban is being followed. The district has also stated that they will be providing resources and support for students who may struggle with the ban.
Both school boards have also addressed concerns about the ban affecting students’ safety, particularly in emergency situations. The CBE has stated that students will still have access to phones in case of emergencies, and the CCSD has assured that teachers will have access to phones in case of any urgent situations.
While some parents and students have expressed concerns about the ban, citing the need for cellphones for communication and safety, others have welcomed the decision, stating that it will help reduce distractions and improve learning in the classroom.
In addition to the ban, the provincial government has also announced that they will be providing funding for schools to purchase landline phones and other communication devices to ensure students’ safety and accessibility.
As the ban goes into effect this September, it is important for students and parents to familiarize themselves with the policies and procedures set by their respective school boards. It is also crucial for everyone to understand the reasoning behind the ban and to work together to ensure a safe and productive learning environment for all students.
In conclusion, while the cellphone ban may be a controversial topic, it is ultimately up to the school boards to enforce and for students and parents to adapt to. With proper education and support, the ban can be a positive step towards creating a more focused and safe learning environment for students in Alberta.
