Personal Digital Devices at School
The Province of British Columbia introduced a Ministerial Order that restricts the use of personal digital devices in schools. This initiative aims to promote online safety and create more focused learning environments. All public schools in BC must comply with the Ministerial Order.
The practice of setting aside personal digital devices during instructional time has been a longstanding approach across schools in the Sooke School District and as a result, we anticipate a smooth transition for students. Teachers and administrative staff will continue to work with students and their families to support their educational needs by developing healthy boundaries with their personal digital devices during instructional time.
We have worked collaboratively with school principals, staff committees, and parent advisory councils to develop consistent codes of conduct for each educational level—elementary, middle, and secondary.
Elementary (Kindergarten – Grade 5)
Permitted Use: Teachers may incorporate personal mobile devices into lessons for instructional purposes, digital literacy, health or medical needs, or as assistive technology, guided by the Inclusive Education Teacher.
Restricted Use: At all other times, personal digital devices must remain stored away throughout the school day, including recess and lunch. This policy applies to earbuds and headphones as well.
Middle School (Grade 6 – 8)
Permitted Use: Teachers may allow the use of personal mobile devices for instructional purposes, digital literacy, health or medical needs, or as assistive technology, with guidance from the Inclusive Education Teacher.
Restricted Use: At all other times, personal digital devices must remain stored away throughout the school day, including recess and lunch. This policy applies to earbuds and headphones as well.
Secondary (Grade 9 – 12)
Permitted Use: Teachers may plan for the use of personal mobile devices in lessons for instructional purposes, digital literacy, health or medical needs, or as assistive technology, in consultation with the Inclusive Education Teacher.
Restricted Use: During the school day, personal digital devices must be stored away except during lunch and transition times. This policy includes earbuds and headphones.
We kindly remind parents/guardians and students that the school district is not responsible for personal digital devices brought to school.