Dear Upper Upper Lynn Community,

 I want to express my appreciation for your support and cooperation with the personal digital device (PDD) guidelines that were introduced in September 2024. As we continue this practice into the 2025–26 school year, it is clear that its success relies on the collaboration between families, students, and staff. I am truly grateful for your efforts.

As you are aware, across all NVSD elementary schools, there is no student access to or use of PDD at any time on the school campus during the school day. This is essentially a “bell-to-bell" restriction from the beginning of school to the end of the day. Parents are reminded that elementary students are always under direct supervision and that the school will communicate with home for emergent needs if they arise.

I want to acknowledge how well students adapted last school year, and how staff were instrumental in ensuring a smooth transition. Their dedication to creating a focused, engaged, and distraction-free learning environment will continue to make a positive difference in the [school name] community as we collectively settle into the current school year.

The slogan we have been using, “Devices off, learning on," captures the essence of what we are all working toward: a space where students can focus on their education without unnecessary distractions. Your role in reinforcing this message at home is invaluable, and we are grateful for your partnership in helping your child(ren) understand the importance of these guidelines. As you work with your child(ren) to foster healthy digital habits, you may find the following resources helpful to support these conversations:

·      Cell phone restrictions in schools (published by the Government of British Columbia)

·      Digital media: Promoting healthy screen use in school-aged children and adolescents (published by the Canadian Paediatric Society)

Please reach out if your child(ren) requires additional support in following these guidelines or if you have any questions. By working together as families, students, and staff, we can create an environment where all students can thrive both academically and personally.

Sincerely,

Tim MacLeod
Principal