As part of our ongoing efforts to provide effective and engaging digital learning experiences, the Portsmouth School Department utilizes a variety of online applications and tools to enhance student instruction. These applications, whether free or paid, are carefully selected for their educational value. 

While we prioritize tools that are compliant with the Rhode Island Student Data Privacy Consortium (RI SDPC), not all tools in use are currently approved or listed in the SDPC database. Some providers may decline participation in the SDPC agreement despite widespread use in K–12 education.

Examples of commonly used tools not currently approved in the RI SDPC:

● Adobe Creative Cloud (graphic design and multimedia software).

● ArcGIS by ESRI (geographic mapping tools).

● Quizlet (flashcard-based learning platform).

These applications may require limited student identifiable information such as name, school-issued email, or classroom-generated work in order to function properly. Google for Education and Additional Services for Students Under 18. Students at Portsmouth School Department are issued Google for Education accounts managed under the district’s domain (e.g., @portsmouthschoolsri.org), which grant access to Google’s Core Services such as Docs, Drive, Gmail, and Classroom. These core tools are governed by the Google Workspace for Education agreement, which includes strict data privacy and advertising protections for students under 18.

In addition to these core services, the district may allow access to Google’s Additional Services, which are governed by Google’s general Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. These services may include:

● YouTube (limited access through “YouTube Restricted Mode”).

● Google Earth (geographic and mapping education tools).

● Google Photos (used for projects or photo uploads in some cases).

While these services provide valuable educational functionality, they may collect additional data and are not covered by the same privacy protections as Core Services. Parent/Guardian Options.

If you do not wish for your child to access or use educational applications that are not currently approved by the RI Student Data Privacy Consortium (RI SDPC), including Google’s Additional Services for users under 18, you may choose to opt out by completing the form linked below.

• Please note that opting out may limit your child’s access to certain classroom activities or digital learning experiences. Teachers will make every reasonable effort to provide alternative assignments when needed.

Portsmouth School District- Student Data Privacy Opt Out Form