Azores schools delay start dates and announce mobile phone ban

In the Azores, secondary school and 3rd cycle basic education classes will begin between September 17 and 22. This delay, which is five working days later than the standard start date, is due to changes in the national exam calendar. The Regional Government stated that the decision allows teachers to complete exam grading and prepare for the upcoming school year.

Additionally, new educational regulations have been announced regarding mobile phone usage. Starting January 1, 2027, the use of mobile phones will be prohibited in schools for students in the 7th, 8th, and 9th years. Schools will have several months to prepare for the implementation of this ban, which aligns with policies in countries such as France, Sweden, and the Netherlands.