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School committee approves trimmed technology handbook language, tightens BYOD rules
Summary
The committee unanimously approved condensed technology handbook language that removes antiquated sections, shifts discipline specifics to school handbooks, drops mandatory student data backup and district insurance suggestions, and narrows BYOD to legally or medically necessary cases with principal approval.
The Blackstone‑Millville Regional School Committee voted July 6 to approve revised technology handbook and procedure language that the committee said streamlines the district document and moves student discipline specifics to individual school handbooks.
Dan Keefe presented the changes, saying he reduced the document from about 19 pages to nine and removed outdated introductory language. Keefe said the revised language removes a district requirement that students back up data and removes district‑led insurance recommendations for devices. He also recommended removing a lengthy BYOD (bring‑your‑own‑device) section and replacing it with a policy that allows personal devices only for legal or medical reasons with principal approval; the district will still attempt to provide devices when needed.
Keefe noted the update also clarifies expectations about lost or stolen Chromebooks and adds guidance on replacement USB‑C chargers. The committee asked for and received clarification that discipline measures are to be handled at the school level because consequences can differ by grade level.
The committee moved to approve the updated technology handbook language; the motion was seconded and passed by unanimous roll call.
Why it matters: The changes reduce district‑level disciplinary prescription, put day‑to‑day disciplinary procedures in school handbooks, and set clearer expectations for families about device care and allowable personal devices.
