New Restrictions on the Use of Cell Phones and Personal Devices

On June 17, the Honourable Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Education, announced restrictions on the use of personal mobile devices and access to social media platforms in Alberta Kindergarten to Grade 12 schools and private Early Childhood Services programs, starting September 1, 2024. These restrictions are aimed at helping to reduce distractions and maximize learning time, while supporting student mental health and reducing opportunities for cyberbullying. A personal device is considered to be any personal electronic device that can be used to communicate with or access the internet, such as a cellphone, tablet, laptop, or smartwatch.

The attached letter outlines the reasons this policy was introduced, some details on what schools are being asked to do, and some general information on what parents can expect in the coming months.