TECHNOLOGY AGREEMENT

Although technology is an important part of our world, the use of cell phones, computers, earbuds, headphones, and other electronic devices by students during the school day has become problematic. In response to the issues presented by the use of personal electronic devices, the State of Kansas has passed legislation regulating their use at all public schools and accredited private schools. This agreement reflects that legislation.

During the school day, students are NOT allowed to use any personal electronic devices that allow for voice, text, or video communication between two or more parties, including (but not limited to) cell phones, smart activewear (e.g. watches, glasses), tablets, computers, earbuds, text messaging devices, personal digital assistants, or video game systems. (Any limited exceptions made will necessitate the involvement of the student’s licensed physician and certification that no other reasonable alternative options are available to meet the student’s medical need.)

Students who may need to bring communicative personal electronic devices to school due to extenuating circumstances (e.g. daily coordination of student pickup, after school activity notifications) will turn in their device at the front desk upon arrival, so that the device can be stored securely. Devices can be retrieved from the front desk after the last bell or upon departure. Student drivers should keep any such devices within their vehicles while on school premises; they will not be permitted to re-visit their vehicle to use their device.

During the school day, students MAY—with written school authorization—use wireless, over-the-ear headphones for noise cancellation purposes. Headphones can also be used to listen to music via a paired, noncommunicative music device (e.g. MP3 player) during break and lunch, as well as in the classroom when specifically allowed by the teacher. Such uses will be monitored by school staff to ensure they do not interfere with educational activity.

School-assigned devices (e.g. Chromebooks) are to be used for assigned classwork only. At no time should a student be on any non-school-related website without teacher permission.

Anyone, including parents, needing to talk to a student during the school day should call the school. We can bring the student to a school phone (if necessary) or relay a message to the student.

When the need arises, students will be given permission to utilize the school phone to contact family and/ or family-approved personnel (e.g. babysitter, transportation provider).

CONSEQUENCES for any device being used inappropriately:

1st Violation—Warning: Staff will provide immediate direction to student to resolve the violation. School policy violation will be marked on the student’s Daily Report Card.

2nd Violation—Meeting: Student will meet with school administration to address violations. Administration will determine appropriate action resulting from the violation of the school agreement.

3rd Violation—Parent conference: Parents will be notified by school administration that a meeting is required to determine next steps. Administration will determine appropriate action resulting from the continued violation of the school agreement.