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As we are now around a month into the new mobile device rules with Airdrie schools. Rocky View Schools (RVS) Superintendent Greg Luterbach has shared his thoughts on how it's going so far.
Back at the beginning of September, RVS introduced Administrative Procedure (AP) 148: Responsible Use of Personal Mobile Devices and Social Media in Schools in alignment with new provincial government standards. To see some of the key points of the AP, click HERE.
According to Luterbach, overall, he has seen a lot of support from teachers and parents.
"We need to make sure that our instructional time is protected, that we make sure that we're creating engaging learning opportunities for students. By restricting personal mobile devices, including cell phones, I think this is a mechanism to make sure that students have the best opportunity to learn."
Airdrie parents have recently shared their opinions to DiscoverAirdrie on the new AP. Luterbach went on to share that just having those personal mobile devices off or in their backpack, creates less distraction in the classroom.
"Some teachers, are certainly commenting on how well students are doing, and these are high school students that are doing well. They're honouring that they understand the intent, and we're trying to take a positive approach around it."
When talking about what he has heard from parents on the AP so far, the vast majority support it.
"There are some parents that have some concerns about being able to reach their child, and we've just reiterated that we have office staff at all of our schools, and if they need to speak to their student, please call the office, and the office can reach the student."
Luterbach explained they did it before cell phones they are still able to do it now.
"They can also leave a message, and when the student is on a break, they can deal with that and then turn it off when they're back heading into class."
Some students do have medical exemptions, and according to Luterbach, they have tried to make sure they meet those needs. When asked if there could be any changes to the AP, Luterbach stated they are always keeping a close eye on if anything needs to change.
"We'll continue to listen and monitor to see how things are going, talking to teachers, talking to school administrators, hearing from parents and students, and decide if any kind of tweaks are required."
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