Petaluma City Schools

Bring Your Own Device Program

Students in grades 11-12 at Casa Grande, Petaluma, and Valley Oaks High schools have the option to bring their own laptop or tablet (keyboard recommended) to school for educational purposes, rather than borrowing a Chromebook from PCS.  Smartphones and eReaders (Kindle etc.) are not acceptable devices for the PCS BYOD program. Should you elect to bring your own device (BYOD), here is what you need to know.

Purpose

The BYOD program is designed to provide an opportunity for students to use a device of their choosing, while fully participating in the PCS educational technology program. PCS is committed to providing universal access to innovative learning experiences, which include opportunities to engage in creativity and collaboration; develop critical thinking and communication skills; and learn through meaningful inquiry, choice and reflection.  The effective and responsible use of technology enhances, augments, and even transforms learning experiences while equipping students with 21st century skills.

Internet Access

Petaluma City Schools offers filtered and managed on-campus internet access. This means that students will need to log on to access the internet through the PCS network and their internet usage will be monitored and limited to educationally appropriate sites, while on the PCS network. PCS is compliant with federal regulations requiring districts to restrict student access to websites or other Internet resources that are not appropriate for minors based on content or commercial interests requiring students to divulge personal information.  

Guidelines

When using a student-owned device, students need to expand the concept of their school community to the community they will be interacting with online. Uses in the classroom are for educational purposes and are subject to individual teacher approval. Appropriate use of devices and rules concerning devices apply from the time the student leaves for school until the time they arrive home. Devices may not be used to disrupt the educational environment or violate the rights of others. Using the device to cheat, violate school conduct rules, harass/bully students or staff, or using the device for unlawful purposes could result in confiscation of the student-owned device by a teacher or administrator. Students may also be subject to disciplinary action. Serious offenses will be reported to the local authorities. Recording the voice or image of another in any way that disrupts the educational environment, invades the privacy of others, or is made without the consent of the individuals being recorded is prohibited. Devices recording the voice or image of another to take, transfer, or share any audio, video, or photographs that reveal parts of the body (ordinarily covered by clothing) is prohibited. The possession of pornographic images or video on any electronic device is prohibited.

Responsibility for Devices

• The electronic devices that students bring to school are their sole responsibility.

• The campus or district assumes no responsibility for personal devices if they are lost, loaned, damaged, or stolen. Only limited resources will be spent to locate lost or stolen items.

• Personal devices may be subject to investigation in accordance with District Policy.

• Students are expected to keep their devices secure at all times and not loan to others.

• Students are expected to exhibit digital responsibility and follow the PCS Acceptable Use Policy while using technology.

• Use of technology is a privilege, not a right. This privilege can be revoked.