Restrictions on cellphones in Ontario classrooms will come into effect in November, Education Minister Stephen Lecce says.

The move — which still allows teachers to let students use their phones for educational purposes — was announced earlier this year by Lecce’s predecessor, Lisa Thompson.

It will be in place as of Nov. 4, but will exempt special-needs students or those who need a phone for medical reasons.

During education consultations launched last fall by the province, respondents overwhelmingly supported some limits on cellphone use in classrooms.

“When in class, students should be focused on their studies, not their social media,” Lecce said in a written statement on Thursday. “That’s why we are restricting cellphones and other personal mobile devices in the classroom, while making sure technology is available to help students achieve success in the digital economy and modern workforce.”

However, critics have said teachers already have the right to limit phone use in class. They have also argued it is unenforceable, will create conflict between teachers and students, and raise issues about who is responsible for confiscated devices.

Teachers’ unions say it’s best that students learn how to use their devices responsibly.

“Teachers already decide when to ban cellphones in the classroom, and when to use devices as an educational tool,” NDP education critic Marit Stiles said. “I don’t know why (Premier) Doug Ford thinks he’s better at being a teacher than actual teachers.”

The Toronto District School Board attempted to ban cellphones about a decade ago. In New York, the school board there ended its ban and allowed schools to come up with their own policies, as parents like to be able to reach their children if necessary during the day.

In Michigan, one school board began its ban on phones saying research has found cellphone use at school is distracting and can also lead to bullying or mental-health issues. Forest Hills Public Schools also said it found that student achievement went down as much as 20 per cent when phones were in class.

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