Nova Scotia Education Minister Becky Druhan takes part in a news conference at Clayton Park Junior High School, in Halifax, on June 6.The use of cellphones and other personal electronic devices won’t be allowed during classroom hours at public schools across Nova Scotia beginning this fall.
Druhan made the announcement at Clayton Park Junior High School in Halifax, which has had its own ban on the use of cellphones and personal devices since September. “This directive will provide consistency and clarity for school staff, students and families,” she said. “This really sets our minimum expectations across the province for policies that schools will implement.”
“I’ve noticed an increase in student engagement both in academics and socially. Students are interacting with staff and their peers allowing all staff to get to know students better as people and as learners.” Lujain Elbatie, a Grade 8 student at the school, said she hasn’t missed using a cellphone during the school day and believes prohibiting their use leads to better interaction with teachers and other students.