MOE ENFORCES CELL PHONE POLICY IN SCHOOLS

Basseterre, St. Kitts: The Ministry of Education has begun enforcing

its existing cell phone policy across schools, signaling a renewed effort to address concerns

about student focus and classroom discipline.

Under the policy, cell phones are expected to be turned off and kept out of sight while on school

premises and are strictly prohibited in examination rooms. The enforcement comes amid ongoing

concerns about the negative impact of phone usage on student engagement.

Ms. Phylicia Nolan, Deputy Principal, Washington Archibald High School, expressed strong

support for the stricter application of rules governing mobile device use in schools

“As a deputy principal, I fully support the enforcement of the policy as it promotes a focused and

distraction-free learning environment for our students. Clear expectations around cell phone use

help reinforce discipline, protect instructional time, and maintain academic integrity, especially

during examinations. This structured approach also ensures consistent communication channels

for both students and parents through the school.”

Ms. Che-Raina Warner, Teacher, Washington Archibald High School, voiced her support for

tighter restrictions on mobile device use, while acknowledging both the educational value of

technology and the concerns that have led to stricter oversight.

“As an educator, I fully endorse the no-cell-phone policy, and I don’t take lightly the fact that

cell phones offer a multiplicity of advantages for students in terms of educational opportunities.

However, it’s instructive to note that the misuse and overuse of cell phones have no doubt

prompted the crackdown on the use of cell phones.”

The renewed emphasis on enforcement underscores a broader commitment by the Ministry of

Education to preserve the integrity of the classroom, ensuring that teaching and learning remain

the central focus in an increasingly technology-driven environment.