BRING YOUR OWN DEVICE (BYOD) AND PROTOCOL FOR THE USE OF TECHNOLOGY IN THE SCHOOLS

The Board of Education is committed to aiding students and staff in creating a 21st century learning environment. Therefore, students and staff will be permitted to access the District’s wireless network with their personal devices during the school day. With teacher approval, students may use their own devices to access the Internet and collaborate with other students.

Definition of “Device”

A “device” as part of this protocol is a piece of privately owned and/or portable electronic handheld technology that includes emerging mobile communication systems and smart technologies, laptops and netbooks, and any technology that can be used for wireless internet access, word processing, image capture/recording, sound recording and information transmitting, receiving, and storing.

Internet

The only internet gateway that may be accessed while in the District Public Schools is the one provided by the District. Any device brought to the District will not be permitted to use outside internet sources.

Personal internet connective devices, such as but not limited to cell phones/cell network adapters, are not permitted to be used to access outside internet sources at any time.

Software

Many software packages are now available as web browser applications. This negates the need to have required programs loaded onto student computers. Students can access what they will need through any web browser. Therefore, there is no required software necessary to take part in the Bring Your Own Device program.

Security and Damages

Responsibility to keep the device secure rests with the individual owner. The Norwalk Public School District is not liable for any device stolen or damaged on campus. If a device is stolen or damaged, it will be handled through the administrative office as other personal items that are stolen or damaged. It is recommended that skins, decals, and other custom touches be used to identify physically a student’s device from others. Additionally, protective cases for technology are encouraged.

Bring Your Own Device/Technology Student and Parent Agreement

The use of technology to provide educational material is not a necessity but a privilege. A student does not have the right to use his/her electronic device while at school. When abused, privileges will be taken away. When respected, they will benefit the learning environment as a whole.

Students and parents/guardians participating in the Bring Your Own Device/Technology program must adhere to the Student Code of Conduct, as well as all applicable Board policies, particularly the Computer Acceptable Use policy.

The use of these devices, as with any personally owned device, is strictly up to the teacher.

Legal                             10•221 Boards of education to prescribe rules