October 22, 2024
Families and school division staff have witnessed the impact of cellphones on student learning and wellbeing. In just over a decade, personal electronic devices in schools have shifted from being rare to ubiquitous. Educators have had to balance integrating rapidly evolving technologies into their teaching while addressing the challenges these tools present. The Manitoba Teachers’ Society is committed to supporting the delivery of the quality education that all students deserve.
The Manitoba Teachers’ Society believes that:
- Personal electronic device policies should support student learning and wellbeing, and therefore should not direct the professional and instructional autonomy of educators.
- Teachers and principals are not liable for any losses or damages to personal electronic devices when enforcing a Division’s policy in accordance with its terms.
- Policies should offer clear and consistent guidelines on handling and storing personal electronic devices while minimizing any additional duties or responsibilities placed on school staff. Further, consistent policy enforcement is key to the successful implementation of the provincial directive.
Policies should support both student learning and wellbeing and be matched with appropriate funding to ensure student success. The Manitoba Teachers’ Society is committed to advocating for the resources needed for teaching
and learning.