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Catawba County Schools

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Technology Policies

Technology Policies and Documents

Catawba County Schools (CCS) maintains comprehensive IT policies designed to ensure the secure, efficient, and responsible use of technology resources within the district. These policies include guidelines for acceptable use, data privacy, cybersecurity, and network infrastructure maintenance. By implementing stringent IT policies, CCS aims to protect the integrity of its digital assets, safeguard sensitive information, and provide a reliable technological environment for students, staff, and faculty. Adherence to these policies is crucial for promoting a safe online experience, supporting educational innovation, and maintaining compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. Through ongoing training and awareness programs, CCS ensures that all users are informed about their responsibilities and best practices for using technology safely and effectively.

 

Policies

  • Technology Responsible Use

    This policy governs the safe, legal, and responsible use of all school system technological resources by students and employees, whether on or off school property. It outlines strict expectations for appropriate behavior, rules regarding software and copyright compliance, privacy guidelines, and explicitly states that users have no expectation of privacy when using school-issued devices or networks.

  • Internet Safety

    This policy outlines the board’s commitment to ensuring a safe online environment for students and staff using school technological resources. In compliance with the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA), the policy enforces the use of Internet filters to block inappropriate, obscene, or harmful content, prohibits unlawful online activities and unauthorized sharing of minors' personal information, and requires age-appropriate digital literacy and safety training for students.

  • Technology in the Educational Program

    This policy outlines the integration of 21st-century information and communications technology into the educational program to support student achievement and foster future-ready learners. It governs the selection and deployment of technological resources, authorizes the development of Bring Your Own Technology (BYOT) initiatives, establishes rules for electronic communication tools, outlines guidelines for the responsible use and literacy of generative AI, and details required technology-related professional development for staff.

  • Security Awareness

    This policy outlines the responsibility of all school system users to safeguard confidential data. It establishes requirements for secure user identification, password management, and administrative approval to ensure individual accountability and system security.

  • Use of Wireless Communication Devices

    This policy outlines the guidelines for student possession and use of wireless communication devices on school property. While students may bring these devices to school, they must remain turned off and out of sight during instructional hours unless specifically authorized for educational purposes, medical needs, or individual education/504 plans. The policy also details the consequences for unauthorized use, including device confiscation and potential searches if school rules are violated, and establishes that the school system is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged devices.

Other Technology Documents

  • K-12 Chromebook Agreement

    This handbook outlines the responsibilities, care guidelines, and usage policies for students and families participating in the Catawba County Schools Chromebook program, including terms for home use, damage, and security.