Ascension Catholic School

Technology Policy

We believe it is important for students to have access to technology and the internet to support learning, research, collaboration, and communication. Students in grades K-4 will have access to technology throughout the schoolday. Students in grades 5–8 will be issued a school-owned Chromebook and charger at the beginning of each school year for educational use both at school and at home.

Purpose of Technology Use:

• Enhance and support classroom learning
• Provide access to educational resources and assignments
• Teach students responsible, safe, and appropriate technology use
• Allow students to participate in virtual or AMI (Alternative Methods of Instruction) days, when necessary
• Prepare students with digital skills needed for future academic success

While technology provides valuable educational opportunities, we also recognize that misuse can occur. Students are expected to use technology responsibly and in a manner consistent with the values and expectations of the school community.

Examples of Misuse:

Examples of inappropriate technology or internet use include, but are not limited to:

• Accessing websites or conducting searches unrelated to schoolwork or learning
• Accessing any social media (TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, etc.)
• Accessing, creating, viewing, or storing sexually explicit materials
• Sending, posting, or sharing inappropriate, harmful, or disrespectful content
• Online harassment, bullying, or intimidation through email, messaging, or social media
• Conducting messages (written or images) that do not adhere to the values of Ascension Catholic School or Church
• Unauthorized recording / photos / violating the privacy of others
• Using profanity, obscenity, or other offensive language
• Using personal email accounts without permission
• Attempting to bypass school internet filters or security settings
• Damaging, defacing, or misusing the technology in any way
• Using someone else's identity and password for access to technology or resources, or otherwise attempting to evade, disable, or "crack" passwords or other security provisions of systems on the network

Additional expectations and disciplinary procedures may be found in the Student Handbook.

5th-8th Grade Student Technology Care and Responsibilities

• Bring their charged Chromebook to school every day unless instructed otherwise
• Handle the Chromebook with care and respect at all times
• Keep food and drinks away from the device
• Store the Chromebook safely when not in use
• Report any damage or technical issues promptly to the Technology Teacher or School Office

Families are strongly encouraged to purchase a protective padded sleeve or case designed for an 11.6-inch Chromebook.

Definitions

School-issued electronic devices - Any electronic device that is owned by Ascension and provided to any member of the student body to be used during school hours or allowed to take home for educational purposes (including review of class-related materials, access to school-sponsored platforms, viewing, completing, and turning in assignments, and communication with fellow students, teachers, and administration as allowed by the school. The main device issued is Chromebooks, but this policy applies to any other school-issued device.

School Use - The use of electronic devices and software provided by the school is for the sole purpose of education, teaching, learning, and private study of the curriculum, and is not to be used for purposes such as entertainment, gaming, private email accounts, or non-school related communication.

Cyber harassment / cyber stalking - Cyber activity that is negative in tone, nonconsensual, and is threatening or harassing such as email/instant messages dedicated solely to isolate, belittle, tease, and otherwise make an individual unwelcome, marginalized, and unliked by others. 

Internet Filter Outside of School Although the School employs Internet filters and monitors students’ Internet activity at school, it may not filter or monitor students’ Internet access at home or off school grounds. By signing this Agreement parent(s)/guardian(s) understand and acknowledge this and agree that their child’s use of the Internet on the device at home or off school grounds is at the discretion of and should be monitored by the parent(s)/guardian(s). Some sites accessible via the internet may contain material that is illegal, defamatory, inaccurate, or offensive to some people. 

Parent(s)/guardian(s) assume complete responsibility for the Internet access beyond the network provided by the School. When using the device outside the School, students are bound by the same policies, procedures and guidelines as in school. 

Technology Use is a Privilege

The use of school-issued technology is a privilege, not a right. Failure to follow school policies and expectations may result in disciplinary action and/or loss of technology privileges.

Agreement

By signing below, the student and parent/guardian acknowledge that they have read, understand, and agree to abide by the terms of this Technology Policy.