Cell Phone-Free Environment in K-8 Schools

Grades K-8

Dear Parents/Caregivers,

Following a successful pilot project at Stonybrook Middle School this past year and positive feedback from our school communities, we are pleased to announce that the Hanover School Division will implement a cell phone-free learning environment for all K-8 schools. Effective September 2024, students in Grades K-8 will be expected to leave their phones at home. Exceptions will be made for students with documented medical needs and other extenuating circumstances, ensuring necessary accommodations are in place.

This policy change, approved by the Board of Trustees on June 27th, 2024, aligns with our commitment to prioritizing educational excellence and ensuring the well-being of our students. Our schools are dedicated to fostering an optimal learning environment that minimizes distractions and enhances focused engagement in all school activities. By implementing a cell phone-free policy, we create a culture of attentiveness, active participation, and respectful interaction among students and teachers, significantly enhancing the learning experience.

Please note that this policy change applies exclusively to Grades K-8. Students in Grades 9-12 will continue to follow school-specific expectations on cell phone use as per the HSD Responsible Use of Technology Policy. Teachers in Grades 9-12 schools may, at their discretion, allow or restrict the use of cell phones in their classes.

There are no immediate plans to implement this policy in our high schools. However, we are committed to creating engaging learning environments. Based on the effectiveness of the cell phone-free policy in middle and elementary schools, we will consider adjustments at the high school level. HSD remains open to reviewing and potentially adapting policies as needed.

Please get in touch with your child’s principal in early September if you have any questions or need clarification regarding this policy change.

Posted on June 28, 2024 in: Announcements