Saskatchewan latest province to restrict cellphone use in school classrooms

The Saskatchewan government says students won't be allowed to use cellphones in class in the upcoming school year.

The move, announced Tuesday, applies to all kindergarten to Grade 12 classrooms.

Education Minister Jeremy Cockrill said in a news release that too often phones are taking students' attention away from what they should be learning.

"This new policy will allow students to be more engaged with their teachers and focused on learning the skills and knowledge they need to reach their potential," he said.

Saskatchewan follows several other provinces -- including Alberta, B.C., Quebec and Ontario -- that have moved to restrict cellphones in schools.

Bernie Howe, chair of the Prairie Spirit Board of Education, said the change in Saskatchewan will allow staff to focus on teaching students.

“It is important to take steps like these that work to improve our students’ mental well-being and academic success," he said in the release.

The province said there are to be some exemptions for instructional purposes for high school classes, as well as for students with medical or learning needs.