Teachers say school cell phone bans are helping, but enforcement remains difficult

School cell phone bans in Canada appear to be improving student focus and classroom engagement, but teachers and administrators say enforcement is becoming harder over time. Most provinces have introduced phone restrictions in the past two to three years, with rules varying by grade. Elementary students are generally barred from using phones during the school day, while many high school students can still use them during breaks and lunch. Quebec has the strictest approach, and New Brunswick is moving toward a similar allday restriction for high school students. Education ministers and teachers' unions in several provinces say the policies have had a positive effect, including better attention in class and more inperson socializing. But educators also say the rules need clearer communication, more consistent application across schools, and stronger support from school boards, parents, and governments if they are to continue working.