Common Cell Phone Practices at Nelson McIntyre Collegiate

Nelson McIntyre Collegiate is committed to reducing distractions from personal electronic devices in accordance with LRSD Policy GBEF/JICJ/JK and the ministerial directive on August 15, 2024 ministerial directive. Our goal with this policy is to create a focused learning environment where technology supports learning while minimizing interruptions to instruction and to foster responsible use. This policy will be shared with students in the classroom and on our school website.

Authorized Use:

Cell phone use is permitted outside of learning periods, such as spares and lunch hour. During class time, students are expected to use their personal/school-issued laptop as their primary technology tool for learning and keep cell phones out of sight.

Storage and Non-Authorized Use:

During instructional time, cell phones must be silenced and kept out of sight. Students may store devices in their backpacks, lockers, or a teacher-designated location.

Additional Expectations:

• Cell phone use in washrooms and changing rooms is prohibited.

• Listening devices, including AirPods and headphones, may only be used with teacher permission during work periods. They are not permitted during direct instruction.

• Smart watches and other devices capable of receiving messages must be placed on "Do Not Disturb" during class time.

• Meta glasses and other smart eyewear devices are prohibited at school due to their audio, video, and recording capabilities, which may compromise the privacy, safety, and well-being of members of the school community.

• Consent must always be obtained before photographing, recording, or sharing images of others.

• Cell phone use during lockdowns is prohibited.

Addressing Unauthorized Use:

Teachers will remind students of the school's cell phone expectations. If concerns persist, teachers will work with administration and the student to develop a plan to appropriate use. Continued issues may result in parent/guardian communication and additional administrative follow-up.

Staff Cell Phone Use:

Staff members are expected to limit personal cell phone use during instructional time and while supervising students in order to maintain a focused learning environment

Emergency Communication:

Families who need to contact their child during the school day should contact the school office. In emergencies, the office will assist in facilitating communication between students and parents/guardians.

Review and Community Input

This policy will be reviewed annually in accordance with Louis Riel School Division Governance and Community Engagement (GC 7). Students, families, staff, and members of the school community will have opportunities to provide feedback to help ensure the policy remains responsive, relevant, and supportive of student learning and well-being.

Resolution of Concerns

Questions or concerns regarding the implementation of this policy should first be discussed with the school administration. If concerns remain unresolved, families may access the Louis Riel School Division's Resolution of Concerns process, as outlined in divisional procedures.

Responsibility for Personal Devices

Personal electronic devices are the responsibility of the student. Nelson McIntyre Collegiate and the Louis Riel School Division are not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged devices.

Thank you for your cooperation in helping us maintain a safe, respectful, and focused learning environment.