Students across Quebec entered the 2026-2027 school year on September 1 without the option to use personal cell phones in class, continuing a province‑wide ban that took effect in 2025. The restriction applies to all public and private schools in the province and is enforced by school administrators under the direction of the Quebec government.
The ban, introduced by the provincial authorities in 2025, was intended to boost student engagement and reduce distractions during lessons. After its first year of implementation, the Fédération des syndicats de l’enseignement reported the policy as very successful, noting improvements in classroom focus and participation. The teachers’ union highlighted that teachers observed fewer interruptions and more consistent attendance at lessons.
Richard Bergevin, a spokesperson for the Quebec government, reaffirmed the decision to maintain the prohibition for a second consecutive year. He indicated that the government will continue to monitor the impact of the rule and assess any necessary adjustments, but emphasized that the primary goal remains enhancing the learning environment for students.
Students, who have grown accustomed to the absence of personal devices during school hours, are expected to rely on school‑provided technology for any required digital tasks. Schools have arranged for shared tablets and computer labs to support curriculum needs while respecting the ban. The policy does not affect the use of phones outside school premises or during designated breaks, and parents have been informed of the continued restrictions through school communications.
As the new academic year progresses, education officials and unions will track metrics related to student engagement, academic performance, and overall school climate. The continuation of the ban reflects the province’s commitment to addressing concerns about mobile phone usage in educational settings and sustaining the positive outcomes reported after the first year of enforcement.