Process for Adopting a New App/Tool
The process to adopt new online apps/tools for student use must be thoughtful. Only apps/tools that are appropriate to meet the instructional goals, are well designed and meet the legal requirements to protect student privacy and data will be approved. Before submitting a request for approval of a new App/Online Tool, staff should consider the following:
Does the App/Online Tool comply with the District’s Responsible Use Policy?
Has the District already vetted and approved a similar App/Online Tool? If so, staff should use the already approved tool.
What’s the impact that this new App/Online Tool will have on instruction and student learning? Does it work across content areas and grades? Is it engaging? Does it have strong relevance to the curriculum and instructional goals?
Has the App/Online Tool been fully tested? It's important for the teacher to fully understand the student experience when using the tool to ensure that it works and is appropriate for the age group. Teachers should be aware of any personal information that might be requested if a student account is required to login.
Review the Privacy and Terms of Use for the Tool before seeking District approval.
Staff should speak with their building Instructional Coach before using ANY new app/online tool with students and seek their assistance with the evaluation/vetting process. This includes any online tool that a student interacts with where they may be creating content and/or any site that requires any student login.
Once all the above has been considered, a request for approval of a new app/online tool can be submitted through the Technology Request Form.