On January 18, 2024, the Toronto District Schools Board (TDSB) approved a ban on cell phone use by students by 7 votes to 1. This ban will take effect from the 2024-2025 academic year.

The TDSB School Board said the ban was adopted to improve students' focus on learning and reduce their distraction by mobile phones. According to the council, the use of mobile phones in schools can lead to problems such as learning disabilities, violence, bullying and harassment.

Under this ban, students in TDSB schools are not allowed to use their mobile phones on school premises. This ban also includes the use of mobile phones for educational purposes. Students who do not comply with this prohibition may face penalties such as warning, suspension or expulsion.

This ban has met with different reactions from parents and students. Some parents have supported the ban and believe it will help improve students' concentration. Some other parents are also against this ban and believe that it can lead to restrictions on the freedom of students.

The TDSB School Board said it will continually evaluate the ban and make changes as necessary.

news source