TECHNOLOGY 

When properly implemented, the use of both internet and non-internet connected student devices can provide rich resources that promote educational excellence and are critical in preparing our students for our increasingly connected world. It is the school’s intention to provide a safe, appropriate, and engaging internet environment for every child. The school uses a variety of filtering systems that prevent access to pages and/or sites with inappropriate materials. If concerns arise from the filtering software, students and/or parents may be notified to ensure student safety.  In addition, teachers and technology specialists work with students on grade-level appropriate projects assisting them with critical 21st century skills such as digital citizenship, searching, evaluating, crediting and synthesizing a variety of quality  digital sources, collaborating on curriculum projects, and giving an authentic voice to their work. 

At the beginning of each school year, teachers review the appropriate usage of technology, including but  not limited to: use of the internet, appropriate device handling and care, and proper ways of collaborating digitally with  others. The school’s Acceptable Use of Technology Policy and Chromebook Use Contract will be reviewed and students are expected to follow the rules established by those guidelines.  

There are a variety of technology devices available throughout the school.  Students in kindergarten through fourth grade will attend a technology class with a dedicated teacher as part of their specials rotation. Chromebooks, iPads and STEM equipment are available for student use in classrooms, library and other locations. PreK-3rd grade classrooms have classroom sets of iPads for student use (2:1 in each classroom). Fourth through eighth grade students will work in a 1:1 environment with school-owned Chromebooks. Additional guidelines and information about the Chromebooks and other technology devices can be found in the Acceptable Use of Technology Policy and Chromebook Use Contract. ​All technology is considered as instructional material and should only be used for their intended, school-appropriate purposes. 

St. Rita Catholic School is using a variety of strategies to ensure compliance with CIPA and COPPA for the safety of  students while using digital resources. Access to these resources is a privilege and carries personal responsibility. We continue to teach appropriate internet skills, courtesy and safety, and look to our parents as partners in our effort to teaching how to use the internet ethically, responsibly and in accordance with the guidelines outlined by the Acceptable Use of Technology Policy.. 

All students and parents are required to sign the Chromebook Use Contract and the Acceptable Use of Technology Policy. By signing this handbook, students and parents have indicated agreement with the Acceptable Use of Technology Policy. All students will still be required to sign hard-copies of both agreements. 

E-R​EADERS 

Students in 3-8 grades may bring E-readers to school, provided they have the appropriate paperwork on file with their home room teacher and the administration. E-readers are to be used solely for school-appropriate reading purposes. Failure to comply with the school’s guidelines will result in the loss of the privilege, and the E-reader will be retained in the school office until the end of the school year.

TEXTBOOKS AND SUPPLIES

Textbooks are the property of the school. Students are not permitted to write in the textbooks or damage them in any way. Students are charged for the current price of lost or defaced materials. Any books issued to the students for home use must be returned in the same condition. 

Students are to have the necessary supplies each day. A supply list is published annually on the school website. 

COPPA AGREEMENT - APPLICATIONS AND WEB-BASED SERVICES