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Personal Devices

Starting in August 2019, students will not be permitted to bring personal electronic devices (phones, smartwatches, headphones, etc.) into classrooms unless there is a documented accommodation for a student. Students need an excuse to disconnect and we are that excuse.

These expectations will be communicated with students during the first week of school during our annual handbook reviews and be reiterated through the school year.

As part of the Bexley Blueprint and district technology plan, the district is increasing the number of district owned devices next year, in particular laptops and tablets (this is being accomplished through the use of permanent improvement funds - not operating dollars). This increase in devices will positively impact our ability to integrate technology for learning and reduce reliance on "bring your own device", which also reduces opportunity gaps for students who may not have a device to bring to school. Bexley Education Foundation, through both impact and classroom grants, continues to support innovative learning spaces and practices in the district - including their most recent grant that will allow high school students without access at home to check out devices for school use.
 
We have posted commonly asked questions with answers below. Research links and articles are included, too.

What is a “personal device”?

Any portable electronic device including, but not limited to, cellular and wireless phones, digital cameras, tablets, e-readers, smartphones, laptops, WiFi-enabled or broadband access devices, and devices that allow a person to record, access and/or transmit on either a real time or delayed basis, data, sound, video or still images, text, or other information. (Board Policy EDE)

This includes phones, smart watches, tablets, laptops, headphones, and similar devices that are not school issued.

Students have come to rely on apps for many school related tasks. How will the expectations from tea

During instructional time, the focus should be on learning. Students will not be expected to access PowerSchool, Canvas, email, etc. during class time. 
Teachers fully support these changes and plan to make all necessary adjustments so that access during instructional time is not necessary.

When are personal devices not permitted to use? (6-12)

Students may not access personal devices during instructional time. This includes during class periods, study halls, homeroom, assemblies, and flex time (MS).

When are personal devices permitted to use? (6-12)

Students may access personal devices between classes, before and after school, during lunch/ recess, during field trips (according to that particular trip’s guidelines).

What happens if a student has a personal device during a time that is not approved?

If a student has their device during a time that it is not permitted, a staff member will collect the device and turn it into the office based on the school’s procedure. The first time a student has a device sent to the office, they will be able to pick it up at the end of the school day. The second time a student has a device sent to the office, a parent/ guardian will need to pick it up from the school office. This may require an appointment outside of typical office hours. Any further cases of a student having their device sent to the office will require a meeting with an administrator and an individual plan developed.

Where should students keep devices during the school day?

Students who do bring a personal device to school should keep it in their locker. We highly encourage that students bring a lock for their locker as well.

What is the district doing to increase device access for students?

As part of the Bexley Blueprint and district technology plan, the district is increasing the number of district owned devices next year, in particular laptops and tablets (This is being accomplished through the use of permanent improvement funds - not operating dollars). This increase in devices will positively impact our ability to integrate technology for learning and reduce reliance on "bring your own device", which also reduces opportunity gaps for students who may not have a device to bring to school. Bexley Education Foundation, through both impact and classroom grants, continues to support innovative learning spaces and practices in the district - including their most recent grant that will allow high school and middle school students without access at home to check out devices for school use.

How can parents support their students in this area?

  • Please support our efforts by not expecting your student to access their phone during the day. If there is an emergency, you can contact them through the school office.
  • Consider using parental controls to only allow the most essential apps for communication or instruction during the school day.
    If your child does not currently have a device, consider your ability/willingness to monitor it before purchasing one. There is no school-based need for a smartphone.
  • If you do feel that your student needs a phone, you do not need to purchase a smartphone. For phone calls and texting, a “dumb phone” is just fine.
  • Students will be able to bring phones to school to let parents know they have arrived or about after school plans. They just cannot access devices during instructional time. All school office phones are staffed from 7:30 a.m. until 30 minutes after the end of the school day. We will be happy to get important messages to your child.