As the current generation of grade-school students has been exposed to so much technology, they are able to use their own devices for useful purposes when in the classroom such as research, educational apps, and communication with their parents or guardians in case of emergency.
In recent years, Evergreen Public Schools created a “BYOD” policy allowing students to bring their wireless devices to school. Since this policy has been adopted, several cases have occurred in which students are caught using their devices for reasons other than the educational purposes; sometimes even harming classmates or staff. As these students receive disciplinary action, several parents and students disagree with the staff’s seizure of the device as well as the consequences students face.
To ensure the safety and privacy of all their students and staff, the Evergreen district has proposed a policy to give staff the permission to seize telecommunication devices from any students who disregard rules that are given to them concerning what they can do with their devices. This policy would also be efficient for other school districts, as it ensures the academic environment, integrity and privacy rights of the students.
Emily Reid
Vancouver
