The Holy Spirit Catholic School Division and Lethbridge School Division have issued statements on the upcoming ban on mobile phones and social media. (Photos: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Local school divisions react to new cell phone and social media rules

Jun 18, 2024 | 10:19 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – School officials have issued statements on the upcoming bans on mobile phones and social media in Alberta.

The Government of Alberta announced on Monday, June 17, 2024 that it would ban the use of cell phones during class and social media sites on school grounds.

Each school division will have to implement their own policies, which are set to come into effect September 2024.

Lethbridge School Division

The Lethbridge School Division says it has always promoted the responsible use of technology in its schools.

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Board Chair Allison Purcell says she agrees with the government’s move.

“Through a variety of engagement opportunities, most notably the Division’s annual Town Hall event, the Division has heard loud and clear that cell phones and personal devices in the classroom have been an issue, says Purcell. “The Division is pleased to see the government has set minimum standards for schools, and we are eager to begin the process of examining our policies and procedures.”

The Lethbridge School Division will take its time over the next few months to develop and implement new policies regarding phones and social media. They say it will end up being similar to what was said in the province’s announcement.

Holy Spirit Catholic School Division

Holy Spirit Superintendent Ken Sampson says he welcomes the announcement of the new restrictions.

“For some time now, our division has required all students to understand and sign digital citizenship and acceptable use agreements supported by our Administrative Procedure 113 – Use of Personally Owned Electronic Devices,” says Sampson.

He adds that many of their schools already have policies that align with what Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides shared.

Officials will take some time in the coming months to fully understand the implications of the ministerial order.

READ MORE: Phones banned from Alberta classrooms starting fall 2024

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