Basseterre, St. Kitts, Monday, April 20, 2026: The Ministry of Education has begun enforcing
its existing cell phone policy across schools, signalling 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.
