Surrey school district's cellphone-use policy is receiving an update to restrict the use of devices in schools, in line with provincial guidelines.
Announced earlier this year, the B.C. government made the move to help combat the dangers of the internet children would be exposed to in classrooms. During the January press conference, Premier David Eby shared that school districts will have to create the policies to restrict cellphone use.
“The safe and responsible use of personal digital devices is expected by all Surrey School District students, employees, volunteers, parents, guardians and community members who are on school district property or interacting with students or staff,” Surrey's updated code reads.
Surrey Schools' updated policy outlines that students are not allowed to use their electronic devices — including phones, tablets, laptops and smartwatches — to bully, harass, discriminate or defame others. The use of personal devices during class time is also being limited for times when the school-related activity will be enhanced by electronic use and is directed by the teacher.
Digital devices will also need to by put away during recess and lunch time at elementary schools. Consent is required before anyone engages in recording or photographing students or staff, and digital devices may not be used during lockdown drills.
The updated policy from the Surrey school district also notes that personal digital devices have benefits, including for students who need translation services, medical support and health needs, as well as accessibility needs and more, which are given exceptions for the new policies.
Other uses of personal devices are under the discretion of the teacher for each classroom.
“The classroom teacher is responsible for the learning environment in the classroom, for guiding children to use personal digital devices appropriately, and for determining when personal digital devices should be used,” the code adds.