Cell phones banned in classes
Laptop subsidy still available
In May this year the Province announced that cell phones can only be used in classes at the teachers' discretion. This will be interesting to see how the students, and their parents, adapt to spending less time on their phones and more time concentrating on what's being taught.
As a result, it is suggested that laptps could be used as learning tools in classroms, and parents are reminded that ther ie a laptop subsidy in place, offered by the Provincial Government.
About the Subsidy
The Department of Education and Early Childhood Development Bring Your Own Device program is for students in grades 9 to 12. A laptop or tablet is a required tool to support learning in these grades. This program will allow for more personalized learning opportunities to help better prepare students for post-secondary education and the workplace.
The Department understands that purchasing a new device may be a financial pressure for families. In response, the department has launched a financial assistance program for low to middle income families.
Under the program, parents and guardians have two options to help provide their student with a device:
1. Buy a device that meets the minimum device requirements (see Related Links section) and apply for a reimbursement within 6 months of the purchase. Reimbursements can be provided by e-transfer or cheque.
2. Apply for a subsidy online. Once your application is approved you will receive a subsidy code to apply towards the online purchase of a laptop at IMP Solutions. If you receive the full subsidy of $600 the cost of the laptop would be fully covered. The standard laptop offered by IMP Solutions is the Dell Latitude 3310 laptop.
APPLY HERE:
https://www2.gnb.ca/content/dam/gnb/Departments/ed/pdf/LaptopSubsidySubvention/LaptopSubsidyProgramApplication.pdf
Technology policy updated to clarify cellphone use in classrooms
08 May 2024
FREDERICTON (GNB) – A Department of Education and Early Childhood Development policy has been updated to be more stringent and clarify teachers’ authority to oversee cellphone use in classrooms.
“We have evidence that indicates we should limit cellphone use in classrooms,” said Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Bill Hogan. “The clarifications we are making will strengthen Policy 311 by reinforcing the ability of teachers to effectively oversee cellphone use in their classrooms and limit their use to teaching or medical purposes.”
Section 6.13 has been added to the policy to outline the key changes, which include:
- At the teacher’s discretion, cellphone use by students is allowed in classrooms for educational reasons. During class time, teachers will have students place their cellphones in a designated area of the classroom on silent mode.
- Students who use their cellphone for medical reasons, such as diabetes self-management, may continue to use it.
- Examples of actions that could lead to student discipline are provided.
The updated policy will take effect for the next school year. The current policy is to be followed in the meantime. Both are available online.
