Trustees sticking with wireless schools
By Jeff Outhit
Mar 25, 2014
WATERLOO REGION — Trustees refused to move away from wireless public schools, after some parents argued that Wi-Fi technology hurts children.
"I think we have to trust our staff that this is not really a local issue," Trustee Mike Ramsay said.
The Waterloo Region District School Board has been wireless since 2010, to aid in student learning and save costs. About 40,000 devices connect to the wireless network daily. Proving wireless access is six times cheaper than providing a wired system.
Wireless exposure at this level is safe, according to leading health agencies, including the local public health department, Ontario Public Health, Health Canada and the World Health Organization. The Ministry of Education has no concerns.
However, trustees got an earful Monday from critics who argue exposure to electromagnetic energy in wireless systems threatens the health of students and teachers. They dispute safety assurances and argue that Canada's standard for safe exposure to wireless technology is outdated.
"If you put iPads in every kindergarten class, you're going to cause a public health disaster," said Rodney Palmer, of Collingwood. "When they put the Wi-Fi in my kids' school, my kids got sick."
Stephanie Brathwaite said she was shocked to go online and read dire accounts of wireless dangers, ranging from headaches to irritability and cardiac symptoms. She said children are "essentially being used as guinea pigs."
"I want to be clear that we are parents asking for safe technology, not no technology," she said.
Wireless critics urged trustees to consider steps to limit wireless exposure, for example by limiting the time it is turned on. Trustee Cindy Watson asked that the board strike a committee, including trustees and parents, to review science and develop wireless policies.
"Scientists have been wrong in the past," Watson said. The claim that wireless is safe "is a short-term opinion and it could change in the future."
Trustees rejected her proposal, choosing to leave the issue with health agencies. Several argued the board lacks the expertise to sort out health claims. "I don't see any value whatsoever in forming any kind of committee at this time," trustee John Hendry said.
Senior managers said they'll look to public health authorities to recommend any changes on wireless technology in schools.
"We're doing everything that prudent people would do," said Marilyn Allen, superintendent of business services. "We need to rely on experts."
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