The Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) is taking steps to ensure that students are better supported in focusing on their learning and well-being at school.

Supporting Student Learning

We know that cell phones and smartwatches can be significant distractions for students at school, particularly in the classroom. They can lead to disengagement from learning and isolation from peers.

Student access to social media platforms on school networks and school devices will be restricted. The WRDSB Code of Conduct requires students to refrain from using their cell phones and smartwatches at all times during the instructional day.

Exceptions may include use for:

  • Educational purposes, if explicitly permitted by the educator

  • Health and medical purposes

  • Supporting special education needs, as documented in the student’s IEP

We kindly ask families and caregivers to contact the school’s main office for any communication, reasonable requests, or support. This helps us ensure messages are received promptly and students remain focused on learning.

Building on Established Practices at WRDSB Schools

These changes are based on frameworks developed and successfully implemented at several WRDSB schools in recent years. In partnership with students and families, these schools adjusted expectations for student cell phone use, and staff, students, and families have all noticed positive impacts on student achievement and well-being.

Evidence-Based Approach

Our approach to revising expectations around cell phones and smartwatches is rooted in research and evidence. It aligns with the findings of staff at schools where similar policies have already been introduced, who have observed positive effects on student focus, achievement, and well-being.

A 2022 study by Melissa Huey and David Giguere found that students who did not access their phones during class experienced:

  • Higher levels of course comprehension

  • Lower levels of anxiety

  • Higher levels of mindfulness — being aware and present during class

Next Steps

We encourage families and caregivers to speak with their children about the new expectations for students returning to school in September.

Technology can be a distraction in the learning environment. Cell phones should be kept in student backpacks, and smartwatches should be locked to ensure that texting or gaming does not occur during the instructional day.