CAVEAT – We base our thoughts and opinions on the research located in this article https://thewhitehatter.ca/blog/some-thoughts-about-cellphones-in-classrooms/ Also, for the purpose of this article, our definition of cellphones and personal electronic devices include: fully functioning smartphones, personal electronic devices such as an iPad, tablet, or handheld video game console, AirPods, earbuds, or Bluetooth connected headphones, smartwatches, fitness trackers, or any other accessory that connects to the internet. Recently, we’ve been receiving lots of inquiries from parents, educators, and teens via emails, texts, and phone calls, seeking our thoughts on the use of cellphones in schools. While each school varies, we advocate certain principles, acknowledging the necessity for adaptability to cater to each school’s distinct learning needs. It is important that all parents understand that a school has the legal right to dictate the use of cellphones, or any other digital device, by a student on school property.  – here are our thoughts specific to this issue: Elementary Schools Gr K-6:  Middle Schools Gr 6-8:  High Schools Gr 8-12:  As we delve into the intricate and politicized landscape of cellphone or personal electronic device usage policies in schools, it’s crucial for parents to understand our nuanced approaches tailored to each educational level. From elementary to high school, the above noted considerations prioritize academic focus, student welfare, and digital literacy.  In elementary schools, a firm prohibition policy ensures minimal distractions during crucial learning hours, with exceptions made for specific needs. Middle schools adopt a hybrid model, gradually introducing responsible cellphone or personal electronic device use while maintaining strict boundaries. Notably, eighth grade serves as a transition phase, allowing controlled use under teacher discretion. Finally, high schools embrace a more flexible guiding approach, encouraging cellphone or personal electronic device use as a learning tool with appropriate digital etiquette. We believe that the grade level breakdowns outlined above present a balanced, sensible, comprehensive, and reasonable strategy for incorporating phones or personal electronic device into school settings, that are grounded in sound evidence-based research. Our grade level breakdowns aim to foster a learning-friendly atmosphere, while simultaneously steering students towards developing responsible digital literacy practices and habits as they progress through their academic pursuits from kindergarten to grade 12. It provides developmental responsibility combined with personal accountability. Digital Food For Thought The White Hatter References: 1/ https://thewhitehatter.ca/blog/why-minimalist-phones-are-better-choices-for-pre-teens-and-younger-teens-right-tech-at-the-right-time/