Common Cell Phone Practices at Dakota Collegiate

Common Cell Phone Practices at Dakota Collegiate 

Dakota Collegiate is committed to promoting the appropriate and responsible use of cell phones in accordance with LRSD Policy GBEF/JICJ, Policy JK, and the August 15, 2024 Ministerial Directive regarding the use of cell phones and other personal electronic devices in schools. 

The goal of these practices is to establish a consistent and structured approach to cell phone use throughout the school day, reduce distractions, support student learning, and maintain a focused, respectful, and safe learning environment. 

Authorized Use 

Cell phones may be used during the school day when their use is authorized and appropriate. This may include: 

  1. Learning activities directed by a teacher;
  2. Translation or accessibility purposes;
  3. Accommodations identified through a student's support team; or
  4. Other circumstances approved by administration or designated staff. 

Authorized use is at the discretion of the teacher, administration, or student's support team, depending on the circumstances. 

Storage of Cell Phones 

When cell phone use is not authorized, students are expected to have their devices stored and out of sight. This may include: 

  1. In a backpack;
  2. In a locker; or
  3. In another location specifically directed by the teacher or administration. 

Students are expected to ensure that their devices are not used, visible, or creating a distraction when use has not been authorized.

Addressing Unauthorized Use 

When a student is using a cell phone without authorization, staff will respond in a manner consistent with Dakota Collegiate practices and divisional policy.

Staff may:

  1. Provide a reminder or direction to put the device away;
  2. Speak with the student regarding the expectation;
  3. Seek administrative support when unauthorized use continues; and
  4. Work with administration, the students, and parents/guardians, where appropriate, to establish a plan to address ongoing concerns.

Repeated or significant non-compliance may result in additional consequences or interventions consistent with divisional policy. 

Staff Cell Phone Use 

Staff members are expected to model appropriate and responsible cell phone use. Personal cell phone use should be limited during instructional time, meetings, and while supervising students, except where use is required for school-related responsibilities or an emergency. 

Emergency Communication 

During an emergency, the school office is the first choice for communication between students and their parents/guardians.  Students and families should contact the school office rather than relying on personal cell phones for emergency communication. The school office will assist in facilitating communication as appropriate.

Students are not permitted to use cell phones during lockdowns or other emergency situations when directed by school administration or emergency personnel.  During a lockdown, students are expected to follow all school emergency procedures and directions.

Privacy, Photography and Recording 
 
All students and staff must comply with LRSD Policy IJNDC and all other applicable divisional expectations regarding technology and privacy. Consent is always required before photographing, recording, or otherwise capturing an identifiable individual, except where otherwise authorized by law or divisional policy. Cell phones must not be used to photograph, record, or otherwise capture images or audio of individuals without the required consent.

Washrooms and Changerooms 

Cell phone use by students is always prohibited in all changerooms and washrooms. Students must not use cell phones to photograph, record, or otherwise capture images or audio in these spaces.

Communication of School Practices 

These cell phone practices will be communicated to the school community, including students, staff, and parents/guardians, through appropriate school communication channels. Students and staff are expected to familiarize themselves with these practices and the applicable LRSD policies and directives.

Review and Revision 

Dakota Collegiate will review these cell phone practices annually to ensure continued alignment with LRSD policies, ministerial directives, and the needs of the school community. Input from students, staff, parents/guardians, and other members of the school community may be considered part of the annual review process. 

Resolution of Concerns 

Questions or concerns regarding the application of these practices should first be addressed through the appropriate school-based process.  Where concerns remain unresolved, the divisional “Resolution of Concerns” procedure may be followed in accordance with divisional procedures. Thank you for your cooperation and your continued support in helping Dakota Collegiate maintain a focused, respectful, safe, and positive learning environment.