The Richmond Board of Education passed a motion to update Policy 105: District Code of Conduct effective July 1, 2024. The updated policy will:

• Restrict students’ use of personal digital devices at school, including during instructional time or learning related activities, to promote online safety and a focused learning environment, unless use is permitted by supervising staff.
• Support the acceptable use of student personal digital devices for accessibility and accommodation needs, medical and health needs, and to support equity of learning outcomes.

In conjunction with the updates to Policy 105, the district developed Policy 104-G (A): Acceptable Use of Personal Digital Devices. The key components of these administrative guidelines are as follows:

Elementary Schools (K-7):

• Students should not have personal digital devices in their possession during the school day unless permission is granted by the supervising staff for educational purposes. This includes during recess and lunch or while outside on the playground or on school property.
• It is recommended that students do not bring personal digital devices to school.

Secondary Schools (Grades 8-12):

• Students should not use personal digital devices during instructional time, unless permission is granted by the supervising staff for educational purposes.

• When not permitted, personal digital devices should be powered off and secured inside a student’s backpack, locker or secured location.

   

To view the complete polices and guidelines, please visit the district website or use the provided links below:

• Policy 104-G (A): Acceptable Use of Personal Digital Devices
• Policy 105: District Code of Conduct

Parent Communication:

• The district will be sending this letter by email to all parents on Thursday, August 29 to communicate the Acceptable Use of Student Personal Digital Device Guidelines.
• Information will be posted on the district website and district social media accounts
• Schools are encouraged to add a news post to your school website and include in your parent communication

Staff Communication:

• PVPs: review the Acceptable Use of Personal Digital Device Guidelines during a school start-up staff meeting
• PVPs: discuss the details and school-based procedures at a SCC meeting

Student Communication:

• Schools are encouraged to communicate these guidelines to students:
  • During school or grade assemblies
  • Teachers: include classroom routines in course syllabus
  • Teachers: be explicit with students on personal digital device classroom expectations
  • Teachers: communicate expectations with parents during Meet the Teacher night or in class newsletters