Cell phones restricted; vaping banned at schools

When students go back to school this September they will see big changes.

As part of its “back-to-basics” plan, the province, at the end of April, revised Policy/Program Memorandum 128 (PPM 128), Provincial Code of Conduct restrictions on the use of personal mobile devices in schools. Further, it prohibits possession and use of vaping and smoking products.

The Hastings Prince Edward District School Board is getting the word out to parents and guardians in advance of the new school year.

It states students must not use cell phones and other personal mobile devices, such as a tablet or smartwatch, during instructional time. Devices must be turned off or set to silent mode and stored out of view.

Students in Grade 6 and below should not use cell phones or mobile devices during the school day, unless permitted. They can bring a mobile device to school, but will only be able to use it before and after school.

Students in Grade 7 and above must follow school rules about using mobile devices in other areas of the school and on school trips. They can bring a mobile device to school and use it during recess/breaks or lunch. They can use their mobile device during learning time only when a teacher says to use it as part of learning, for example, doing research or visiting a specific website; it’s needed for a health or medical reason or it supports special education needs.

Students cannot bring electronic cigarettes (vapes), tobacco or nicotine products to school (including school transportation).

If a student is in possession of an electronic cigarette (vape), tobacco or nicotine product it will be surrendered and disposed of and parents/guardians will be immediately informed.

The Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017 prohibits smoking (tobacco and cannabis) and the use of electronic cigarettes (vaping) at schools, on school grounds and all public areas within 20 metres of these grounds. Anyone smoking or vaping on school property is guilty of an offence and if convicted may result in a fine under the Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017.

The Hastings Prince Edward District School Board recommends students quit vaping this summer and advise using the Quash App. Drug Free Kids Canada has a fact sheet with ideas about how to talk about vaping, as well as general information.
Resources are also available through Hastings Prince Edward Public Health.

HPEDSB staff is working with Hastings Prince Edward Public Health to create a vaping progressive discipline flowchart, along with vaping education and prevention resources. More information is to be available for parents/caregivers and students early in the 2024-2025 school year.