Ontario's Education Minister Paul Calandra is contemplating an all-day ban on cellphones in schools, following the example set by Quebec, where students are prohibited from using devices until they leave school property. This initiative aims to improve student focus and address chronic absenteeism, as only 40% of high school students in Ontario meet attendance standards. Currently, Ontario allows cellphone use during lunch and breaks for students in grades 7 and above, but Calandra noted that the initial ban for younger students has led to positive feedback regarding focus. While some students appreciate the restrictions, others call for stricter enforcement. The province is also clamping down on social media access in schools, banning platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Calandra plans to consult with education officials in Quebec to learn from their experiences. Additionally, he announced plans to enhance attendance support, including hiring more attendance counselors, as poor attendance is linked to lower academic achievement. Critics have raised concerns about the impact of mandatory attendance grades on vulnerable students, urging for more support and resources to address these issues.