Managing Students' Personal Device

Is your child going into grade 7 or 8? Are you thinking of getting your child a device (iPod, cell phone, etc.) over the summer? Maybe they already have a device? An excellent skill/app for them is the use of the calendar/alarm to put in items such as test and assignment due dates, school events and reminders. The calendar is a standard application that comes in all makes of smart devices (Apple, LG, Samsung, etc.) Students often come to school with their devices, using them for simple messaging, or even to access the internet but have no idea how to use the calendar. This application would help them with organizing their work schedules, as well as keep track of after-school activities, appointments etc.. With so many different devices on the market, it is sometimes difficult to teach this skill in a large group classroom setting. I would encourage you to sit down with your child and go through the calendar application on their device so they have a good grasp of this skill and all the options that go along with it. This would include setting reminder alarms for tests and assignments or even sharing the calendar event with others (parents) so they are aware of upcoming events. If you are thinking of a device for your child or they already have one, perhaps take some time over the summer to review how to manage the calendar to help support their success at school.

Electronic devices can be used as learning tools and have their place in the school. All electronic devices must be turned off and stored in the locker when the student arrives at the school. Electronic devices may only be used when permission is given by the staff member in charge. One exception to this rule is at recess or noon hour breaks where students in grades 6/7/8 are allowed to listen to music with one earbud using their electronic device as the controller. The school is not responsible for damage, loss or theft of devices. Parents are encouraged to call the office to get in contact with their child or note that text messages sent to the child’s device will be accessed during recess and noon breaks.