YOUR PERSPECTIVE: Cellphone ban would enhance school engagement

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A non-instructional ban means students with learning disabilities who rely on their cell phones as educational tools, will continue to have access. Additionally, students will not be prevented from accessing their phones when not in class, meaning they will be able to continue use their device to communicate with their families and have access to online resources outside of the classroom.

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While in class, students should be focused on their studies, not their screens. Not only would banning cellphone use help to improve engagement and educational performance, but it can also prevent cyberbullying and other negative consequences of increased social media use in the classroom.

Most parents or teachers will tell you that they have noticed the impacts of rising smartphone use on students, and we shouldn’t be waiting for the problem to worsen before taking steps to address it. The current NDP government is scared to act, but BC United would immediately implement a province-wide Ministry of Education mandate to ensure this ban is implemented consistently in schools throughout British Columbia. Additionally, we would provide funding for lockers for cellphone storage during instructional hours in all K-12 schools that currently lack secure storage capabilities.

Taking action to ensure students and teachers have a positive and healthy classroom environment is critical to set the next generation up for success. We have a responsibility to ensure our schools foster a safe, engaging, and enriching environment for students.

This is in everyone’s best interest — whether you have children of your own or not. Well-educated, socially engaged kids grow up to become thoughtful, considerate and informed citizens and neighbours.

That’s why our BC United team is focused on improving student engagement, restoring transparency in grading by bringing back letter grades, and building the schools that our growing province desperately needs.

Our kids deserve the best we can possibly give them.

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of Fraser Valley Today or Pattison Media.