Province orders ban on private teacher-student messaging

The provincial government has instructed publicly funded schools and divisions to prohibit private messaging and communication on unmonitored digital platforms between school personnel and students. Education Minister Tracy Schmidt emphasized that while teachers must be able to discuss school-related matters with students, they must not engage in secretive conversations that evade parents and school leaders' knowledge.

The directive prohibits teachers from using personal social media accounts, messaging apps, text messaging, or other private communication tools with students. In exceptional cases, such communication may be permitted for the student's safety, accessibility, well-being, or learning needs, but it must be approved by school officials and parents or guardians must be informed.

Schools are required to inform students, staff, and parents about the changes in policies and guidelines.