Will the Honourable Minister please provide this Honourable House with details on
the implementation strategy for the new ban on student use of personal electronic
devices including cell phones and smartwatches during school hours, including
how schools are expected to monitor and enforce the policy?
Implementation
It should be noted that the 2003 Code of Conduct included rules in relation to the use of
mobile phones. In September 2025, the Bermuda Public School System instituted an
updated Student Code of Conduct which reinforced the rules around Personal Electronic
Devices. This is designed to safeguard the learning environment by minimizing
distractions and ensuring that technology use in schools is purposeful and responsible.
The implementation of this policy forms part of a broader strategy to embed the new Code
of Conduct into school culture. The plan is structured in four phases:
● Phase 1 – Pre-launch and Readiness: Internal alignment was secured through
leader briefings, a digital toolkit, and initial announcements to staff and parents.
● Phase 2 – Hard Launch: The policy was formally introduced to staff, students, and
parents through staff meetings, assemblies, and PTA/PTSA sessions to ensure
understanding of expectations and consequences.
● Phase 3 – Ongoing Awareness and Education: From October to January, we will
gather feedback on the Code and policy. A student-led podcast will also highlight
key aspects of the Code.
● Phase 4 – Evaluation: From February to June, a formal review process will be
undertaken, including a mid-year pulse survey and an end-of-year report to
measure impact and guide future planning.
Monitoring and Enforcement
School staff are expected to apply the Personal Electronic Devices Policy fairly and
equitably, using the framework of progressive discipline outlined in the 2025 Code of
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Conduct, together with restorative practices that support student learning and
accountability. Staff are also required to record all infractions and the corresponding
disciplinary responses.
School leaders are responsible for regularly monitoring this data and employing the Multi-
Tiered System of Support (MTSS) to address recurring infractions. This monitoring further
enables leaders to determine whether consequences are being issued fairly, consistently,
and in accordance with the 2025 Code of Conduct.