ICT User Agreement

Introduction

Southland Adventist Christian School believes in a Digital Citizenship model for supporting safe and responsible use of the internet in teaching and learning.  An important part of this is that we are able to show others what that responsible use looks like while we are using technology in our learning.

We think a good digital citizen is someone who;

• is a confident and capable user of ICT

• will use ICT for learning as well as other activities

• will think carefully about whether the information they see online is true

• will be able to speak the language of digital technologies

• understands that they may experience problems when using technology but can deal with them

• will always use ICT to communicate with others in positive ways 

• will be honest and fair in all of their actions using ICT 

• will always respect people’s privacy and freedom of speech online

• will help others become a better digital citizens

Because we know this is important for us all, we ask everyone, the staff, students and volunteers working at the school to agree to use the internet and other technologies in a safe and responsible way by following the rules laid out in the ICT User Agreement.

If someone cannot agree to act responsibly, or the things that they do mean that other people are being harmed, then we might stop them from using the internet or other technology at school.

Cell Phones/Devices

Our approach is “away for the day”, meaning the device should be turned off, and handed in during the school day. All devices brought to school must be given immediately to the Principal or Office Administrator in the morning for safe storage during school hours. They will be returned to the student at 3pm. Students are only to bring devices to school with their parents’ permission. Cell phones/unauthorized devices found at school will be held at the office, for parents to uplift.

It is important to note that if students do make the decision to bring a cellphone to the school grounds, they do so at their own risk. The school is not responsible for any loss or damage caused to any cellphone.

Students with additional learning needs who use cellphones in class to increase or improve their ability to participate and learn will be granted an exemption. In matters related to a student's immediate health and safety concerns, a parent or caregiver can apply at any time to the principal for a period of exemption (e.g., medical conditions or protection issues).

If we see a student using a personal digital device inappropriately or without permission during the school day, we confiscate it. After the student locks the device, we place it in the office to be collected at the end of the day by a parent or guardian. 

Breaches of the cellphone rules include (but not limited to): 

• using the device when not permitted

• any sort of bullying, including online bullying

• taking photos or videos of other people without their permission

• forwarding inappropriate messages or content.

If a student makes the decision to inappropriately use a cellphone multiple times in a week the cellphone will be confiscated and can only be retrieved by a parent or caregiver following a discussion with the Principal.  

With the permission of parent/caregiver, students may use a Mobile Device (phone, iPod, tablet etc.) when on the bus as long as the following conditions are adhered to:

• Any use fits the Christian Special Character of the school

• The device is for personal use only

• Any music/noises played from the device is through the use of headphones

• The use of the device is at the discretion of the driver – any misuse will result in the device being confiscated and given to the Principal

• When the student arrives at school, the device must be handed to the Principal

Any student bringing their device to school must have their parent/caregiver sign the following agreement:

I give my child permission to bring a device to school. I understand that all devices must be handed to the principal at the start of the day for safe-keeping. I also understand that the school is not liable for any devices which are in the care of the student.