Technology - Part 2 of Blog

Hello Families,

We wanted to take a moment to touch on technology at school. Since the holidays, numerous students received new technology. We know it is so exciting and students want to use it, but we do have a school policy that states:

"Students shall not bring devices such as a cellular phone, iPod, tablet, MP3 player, smart watch, fitbit or other electronic communication or entertainment equipment unless directed by a teacher and needed for class.”

 

Back in October, there was an eblast that went out that addressed this issue as well. Please review it below. 

Eblast 10/14/17

Wearable Technology

Wearable technology.  In the 80s, that referred to a Casio calculator watch.  These genius devices put a handy calculator right on your wrist, perfect for finding the tip in a restaurant...or for that algebra quiz.

Wearable technology today is part of the latest trend in accessories.  From Google Glasses to Milestone Pod running trackers, from haptic feedback yoga pants to Owlet smart socks for babies, wearable tech is everywhere.  And, the most common, the smartwatch.  Fitbits, founded just 10 years ago, gave way to an explosion of wearable technology that allows us not just to track daily steps and monitor heart rate, but take calls, send texts, pay your bill, take pictures, and tell you the weather.  

These wearable devices can be useful for adults on the go, fitness enthusiasts, and others wanting to stay close to their phones, but who don’t have a spare hand (basically every parent ever).  However, just like the old Casio that I snuck into math class, these devices have the potential to be used incorrectly.  We know that we should put down our phones and be present for those in front of us, and these tricky devices pull us away.  If you use one, remember to put it aside and give some real “face time” to those you are with.  

For students, any device that has the capability to act as a phone (get texts, call notifications, interact with apps) is treated as a phone, and therefore cannot be worn in class.  If your child has a smartwatch, please remind them to remove it and leave it at home on school days.

If a student needs to bring a phone to school, it must be turned into the teacher to hold onto during the day. No use of the cell phone may occur while on campus. Personal iPads are allowed to come to school as they are locked up until it is needed during Social Studies or Reading. 

Thank you for your support in this matter. 

Mrs. Ezell and Mrs. Grucky