Vaping and personal mobile devices, September 2024

Changes coming in September 2024: Vaping and personal mobile devices
Posted on 07/25/2024
Changes are coming

Changes are coming to all Ontario schools in September 2024 to promote healthy and welcoming learning environments. As directed by the Ministry of Education in Policy/Program Memorandum 128, starting in September, all Ontario school boards will be required to follow the updated Provincial Code of Conduct. This includes all students being required to follow strict anti-vaping and cell phone/personal mobile device use guidelines.

 

What does this mean for students?

Electronic cigarettes (vapes), tobacco and nicotine productsShine on, Vapes gone

  • Students cannot bring electronic cigarettes (vapes), tobacco and/or nicotine products to school (including school transportation)
  • If a student is in possession of an electronic cigarette (vape), tobacco or nicotine product it will be surrendered and disposed of
  • If a student is in possession of an electronic cigarette (vape), tobacco or nicotine product, parents/guardians will be immediately informed

The Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017 prohibits smoking (tobacco and cannabis) and the use of electronic cigarettes (vaping) at schools, on school grounds and all public areas within 20 metres of these grounds. Anyone smoking or vaping on school property is guilty of an offence and if convicted may result in a fine under the Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017.

Cell phones/personal mobile devices

  • Shine bright, phones out of sightStudents must not use cell phones and other personal mobile devices, such as a tablet or smartwatch, during instructional time 
  • During instructional time, devices must be:
    • turned off or set to silent mode
    • stored out of view
  • Students in Grade 6 and below should not use cell phones or mobile devices during the school day, unless permitted.
  • Students in Grade 7 and above must follow school rules about using mobile devices in other areas of the school and on school trips.

Updates to HPEDSB procedures

In response to the PPM 128, the following HPEDSB procedures are being updated during summer/fall 2024:

HPEDSB staff is working with Hastings Prince Edward Public Health to create a vaping progressive discipline flowchart, along with vaping education and prevention resources. More information will be available for parents/caregivers and students early in the 2024-2025 school year.