Acadia Mobile Devices Policy

Student-owned mobile devices (smart phones, portable electronic devices) are not required at Acadia Junior High. Students who choose to bring their mobile devices to school do so at their own risk.  The school is not responsible for lost or stolen mobile devices. At Acadia Junior High, mobile devices and earbuds/headphones must be placed in the student's backpack during instructional hours between 9:10 - 12:05pm & 1:10 - 3:55pm (times adjusted on Thursdays).  This includes any school sanctioned events. Students are permitted to use their mobile devices during lunch period but are expected to use them appropriately.

In case of emergency, please contact the school at 204-269-6210 and we will be happy to assist you.  There is also a phone available in the office for students to use.  See the Acadia Mobile Devices Policy attachment on this site for more information and frequently asked questions.

With close to 300 school-owned laptops, PC's, iPads, and tablets available, there is ample technology available for students to develop their Information Communication and Technology (ICT) skills such as media literacy and research skills. Devices will continue to be provided/permitted for students that have diagnosed learning needs/disorders such as laptops and iPads upon approval of administration.

After much research, consultation with staff, observation of students, and the Acadia Parent Council, it is clear that this change in policy needed to occur.  We will be discussing the 'why?' with our students on their first day back in September and facilitating various lessons with them so that they understand the importance of this policy for their learning and social development. 

Below is rationale for this policy change.  Click on this link for more articles and information.

1.  Impulsivity: Middle years students are impulsive and highly distracted by their mobile devices

2.  Enhanced engagement in class with fewer distractions

3.  Promoting in-person social skills and connection with each other (rather than competing with You Tube and social media)

4.  Digital Diet: recent research is showing that teens are online an average of 9 hours per day

5.  Devices being used inappropriately during class time

6.  Anxiety: A significant amount of research is being published that demonstrates a link between raised levels of anxiety and social media.

We believe that addressing the 6 areas above through this policy will ultimately lead to better conditions for greater student achievement, improved communication skills, stronger relationships and enhanced mental health for our students.