January 30th, 2017

In the WRDSB, including at MacGregor PS, we have a “Bring Your Own Device” policy.  Lately, we have noticed a growing problem with the use of these devices for purposes other than school work.  The increase in students using technology to communicate with students in a negative way, and distribute inappropriate images on social media has increased drastically.  As well, teachers are noticing that students are regularly distracted from their learning as a result of their inappropriate use of their cell phones/devices during class instruction and work periods.

As such – we are implementing and re-iterating the following Rules for Technology Use:

  1. Pictures and/or video (including LiveStream) can NEVER be taken at school on a personal device.  Due to privacy concerns and to protect students from cyberbullying, images of students taken at school cannot be stored on non-school owned technology, or uploaded to social media.
  2. Students are NOT allowed to text, instant message or make phone calls etc. during class time. Students needing to contact parents MUST come to the office so that we can ensure they are safe and secure at school.  
  3. Technology must be used for educational purposes only.
  4. Technology must be OFF and AWAY unless given teacher permission for use.
  5. Technology must be OFF and AWAY in the hallways.
  6. Technology is NOT allowed in the gym or tech room, due to safety concerns.
  7. Technology is NOT allowed in washrooms or change rooms, due to privacy concerns.
  8. Technology may be used for listening/games during lunch periods and/or outside, in keeping with the rules above about taking pictures/video and cyberbullying.

If students are seen breaking our Cell Phone/Technology rules, the following consequences will apply:

  1. Student will be reminded/warned of the rules and consequences listed here.
  2. Student will be required to bring their device to the office for the remainder of the day, and call parents to explain their difficulty with following the rules of cell phone use.
  3. Repeated infractions will result in the device being kept in the office until parents can come pick it up from the Principal.

We will be reviewing and re-visiting our cell phone/device policy this spring, and will be seeking student input, as well as input from our parent community.

We ask that parents help support us in implementing our cell phone / device policy.  Please review these expectations with your child at home, and avoid texting (and expecting a reply from) your child during class time.  If it is an emergency and you need to reach your child, please call the office (519-885-6200).

These rules are for everyone’s protection  – from bullying, from loss/theft and from the confusion and frustration that comes from being distracted during valuable learning time.

Categories: Principal's Message