Digital Citizenship promotes responsible use of digital devices. Parents/guardians are encouraged to model positive behavior, routinely monitor students' use, and hold students accountable for behaviors at home.
To receive a Chromebook, parents/guardians must complete this Digital Safety course, confirm completion, and return the required paperwork to their campus, and pay a $25 rental fee through School Pay.
(Please note: There is a .98 cent processing fee.)
Houston Independent School District has adopted an Acceptable Use Policy that maintains compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA).
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) ensures that the privacy of student records is protected. Access to these records is restricted through the use of usernames and passwords.
Students are expected to follow network etiquette at all times. This includes being courteous to others, not using profanity, keeping login information private, and letting an adult know if something inappropriate happens.
Students are not allowed to use district-owned devices in a manner that causes harm to others, damages the device, violates copyright laws, or sends potentially harmful data/information to others.
The HISD code of Conduct outlines the possible consequences for violating these rules. Consequences may range from campus disciplinary actions to legal action as determined by the level of the offense.
Williams Middle School is a Verizon Innovative Learning Schools campus that provides access to Chromebooks for on and off campus use in addition to desktop computers and other technology equipment. In order for students to use HISD devices and accounts (both on and off campus), we require all students to comply with our technology policies. Click here for the Technology Acceptable Use Policy. After reading the Acceptable Use Policy, please sign and return the form. The form will be sent home with each student.
The HISD code of Conduct outlines the possible consequences for violating these rules. Consequences may range from campus disciplinary actions to legal action as determined by the level of the offense.
How does using social media affect our digital footprints?
The digital world allows students to socialize, communicate, and stream music or movies 24/7. it allows for exposure to risks.
When you post something online, you no longer have control over what happens to that information, comment or photo. Talk with your child about what would and would not be appropriate to share online.
Only post things they would feel comfortable sharing with anyone, including parents and potential employers.
Remember that you no longer have control of things you post online.
Cyber bullying includes sharing, sending, or posting negative or hurtful content about another person. This includes spreading rumors, threatening others, or sharing private information about someone else that could embarrass someone. Look out for cyber bullying and notify the school immediately if you find evidence of it.
Cyber bullying can happen anywhere electronic communication is involved, such as text messages, online games, social media sites, email, or instant messaging.
What's in Your Digital Footprint?
Private vs Personal Information
The Chromebook is a web-based device that uses the Google Chrome operating system and Google Drive for cloud based storage. Students can only access web-based applications. The Chromebook can also be used in tablet mode.
Your student will receive:
Chromebook
Chromebook charger (to be kept at home)
Chromebook carrying case
*The student's parent/guardian accepts financial responsibility for any intentional damage or damage due to gross negligence to the Chromebook.
CASE IT
Leave Chromebook inside the case for protection.
NO FOOD OR DRINKS
Keep all food and drink away from the Chromebook.
SWIPE AND SWEEP
Clear the keyboard BEFORE closing the Chromebook. Items left on the keyboard may cause damage to the screen when it is closed.
CHARGE IT UP
Shut down & charge up the Chromebook nightly.
Please complete the link below so that you may get credit for completing the course and your student may receive their laptop during the beginning of the school year.
The forms below will be handed out to students during the first week of school. Please send the completed form with your student as soon as possible. Chromebook distribution dates will be announced on the school website, as well as sent home with a flyer. If you have more than one student attending Williams, a form must be filled out for each student. You will find the three forms linked below.