At The Dr. G.W. Williams S.S. we are committed to providing a safe, caring, and engaging learning environment for students which promotes and supports the educational benefits of technology use. Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs) are an integral part of our society and are embedded in our lives on a daily basis. When used appropriately, PEDs can augment and support the development of skills and learning.
Respectful use of PEDs is permitted during the school day. Respectful use refers to using the PED at the appropriate time and in the appropriate place.
Examples of PED use that are not respectful include, and are not limited to:
- Music/dialogue/sounds from the device being audible to others
- Music/dialogue/sounds limiting the ability of a student to hear or respond to others
- using technology for social purposes during instructional time
- any infringement upon a person’s privacy
- electronic bullying
- recording video, image, or audio without permission from a teacher or Administrator
- use of PEDs during crisis or emergency situations. e.g. lockdown
Within instructional settings (including assemblies and field trips), PEDs can only be used with the explicit permission of the teacher. Without that permission, they must be turned off and kept out of sight.
During assessments and exams, only PEDs explicitly approved by the teacher are permitted. Students using PEDs without permission during an assessment or exam may be disciplined for Academic Dishonesty.
Inappropriate use of PEDs will be dealt with as student discipline through established progressive actions, under the Safe and Supportive Schools Policy and Procedure. This may include, but is not limited to suspension for persistent opposition to authority.
If students bring PEDs to school, it is their responsibility to keep them in a safe and secure location. The School and Staff do not assume responsibility for the loss, damage, recovery, repair or misuse of PEDs.