School Policies -Student Mobile Online Digital Devices

Rationale

Mobile online digital devices (mobile phones, smartwatches or any device that allows digital mobile communication at school or during school events) offer effective and quick means of communication. Where unforeseen events occur, these devices provide students and their families with a ready means of communication.

Aims

This policy aims to set clear guidelines in relation to the appropriate use of mobile online digital devices at school and/or during school events. Compliance with these guidelines will avoid unnecessary interference with teaching and learning, and respect the right to privacy of others.

Guidelines

• Mobile online digital devices must be left in the school office at the beginning of the school day and collected at the end of the school day; it is the student’s responsibility to leave and collect the device at the office, and the device should be muted. • In normal circumstances, parents or caregivers wishing to leave messages for their children should do so by telephoning the school; school staff endeavour to ensure that messages are passed on during class breaks.

• School office staff may also assist students who need to contact family or other persons in an emergency.

• The camera function (available on most mobile phones) must not be used without the school permission as it does not comply with the rationale and aims of this policy and the use of the camera may breach Privacy Act rules.

• Unless in exceptional circumstances, mobile online digital devices may not be taken on school camps or excursions; parents, caregivers and students may communicate using the school phone contact if necessary.

This policywill be reviewed as part of St Patrick’s Catholic School’s policy review cycle.

Ratified by the School Board:March 2019