Fairfax County Public Schools has introduced a new initiative encouraging students to "bring your own device" to school. Gunston ES is embracing this initiative and encouraging students to bring in their personal computing devices to be used in the classroom. These devices include e-readers, tablets, laptops, and netbooks. Participation in this initiative is completely optional and no students will be denied equal educational opportunities should they not have or bring in their own device.

Student participation in BYOD is governed by the Student Rights and Responsiblities (SR&R) Document. Parents and students are required to read and accept the Acceptable Use Policy for Student Network Access within the SR&R document. BYOD permission is now acknowledged by signing the parent and/or guardian signature sheet within this document.

Policy Highlights

• The following personally owned electronic devices may be brought to school, fully charged at home, for instructional purposes: iPads, laptops, e-readers, smartphones, and tablets.
• Use of personal devices is restricted to the owner of the device. Devices are not to be shared with other students.
• Students using personally owned devices will always connect to the FCPS Wi-Fi network via FCPS Mobile.
• Pre-approved devices shall be used solely for instructional purposes in the classroom at the teacher's discretion.
• Devices with cellular network capability may only connect to the internet through Wi-Fi.
• All devices are strictly prohibited in bathrooms, the cafeteria, and the playground.
• Students shall be responsible for adhering to the technology use expectations (FCPS Acceptable Use Policy).
• It is a privilege for students to use their personal devices at school and this may be revoked if they act irresponsibly or
  violate school policy.
• Students and parents need to be aware that the students are responsible for any device(s) they bring in to school and that FCPS accepts no liability for personally owned devices used at school. Our Tech Specialists cannot trouble shoot nor repair personally owned devices; however, they will offer assistance with connecting the device to FCPS Mobile Wi-Fi.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How will my child be using their device during the school day?

We anticipate students will use the devices to read during free-reading time and access websites with curriculum-related content. With this rapidly changing technology, this may change as students and teachers adapt.

What about security/theft/damage?

Personally owned devices are treated the same as any other device, equipment, or property. Devices are the sole responsibility of the student. Hayfield Pyramid Elementary Schools accept NO responsibility for the security or safety of the device.

What apps/software will be used in the classroom?

FCPS does not provide or require apps or software for personally owned devices. Classroom lessons will be tailored for the technology that all students have access to.

What happens if the device breaks while in school?

The student will put the device away and take it home at the end of the school day where the student and parent can troubleshoot the device. FCPS has limited resources and cannot provide support for the wide variety of devices allowed under this program.

Why are cellular data plans not permitted?

To facilitate instruction and practice internet safety, FCPS’s internet connection is protected by an internet content filter. Cellular data plans do not use FCPS’s internet connection and therefore do not use FCPS’s internet content filter.

Should I go out and buy my child a device?

There is no requirement that a student have a personal device. Each Hayfield Pyramid Elementary School has enough computers to fulfill the needs of our instructional program. Personally owned devices are a supplement to the equipment already in use in the classroom.