BYOT Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is BYOT?

A: BYOT is an acronym for Bring Your Own Technology and is a program that allows students to bring their own technology devices to be used at specific times during the  day to support learning. Examples of BYOT devices are: Nexus 7s, Chromebooks,eBook readers, iPads, etc.

2. How is BYOT used in class?

A: Teachers will let students know within their classes when the students can use their devices for activities. Classrooms are equipped with green and red signs to indicate the times when devices may be used. Use of mobile technologies enables instant access to a wealth of information, references and collaborative resources on the web. These Internet resources can support the learning activities that are a part of daily classroom instruction.

3. How do teachers monitor technology use in class?

A: Teachers are constantly monitoring as they teach by walking around the room, reading body language, checking student work, etc. Monitoring technology use in class is no different. If a teacher sees a student using a device at an inappropriate time/or to access inappropriate material, the teacher will confiscate the device immediately and disciplinary action will follow.

4. What do I have to do before I can bring my own personal technology device to school?

A: There are two items that must be completed and on file before any student in grades K through 5 may bring a personal device to school:

1. All students must have a signed Acceptable Use Policy on file with the school. This will be completed at the beginning of each school year.

2. Students must register their device using the online Device Registration Form. The registration process will allow you to identify your device by the serial number and any additional markings that you have applied. This will be valuable information should the device be misplaced. A device needs to only be registered once.

5. Who can access the districts Wi-Fi (wireless) network? 

A: Anyone within range of our Wi-Fi signal can access the network. For security purposes the network is structured so that other users do not know who else is on the network nor can they access anyone else’s device.

6. What devices can access the FCBOE wireless network?

A: Any device with Wi-Fi capability can access the network. There is no need for a data plan or mobile service.

7. Is there a preferred device to use for this program?

A: We hesitate to recommend any devices. We see a wide variety of devices that are used in classrooms. Each has its pros and cons. K-1 classes uses Nexus 7 tablets and 2-5 students use Chromebooks. Some students benefit from a device with a standard keyboard and a large screen.

8. What happens if a student cannot bring a personal mobile device to class?

A: Each K-5 classroom is equipped with mobile and desktop technology. Your child should not be treated any differently because he or she does not have his or her own device. If students are bullied or harassed because of this, the consequences are the same as any other bullying or harassment incident. The idea of BYOT is to allow more students more access to technology in the classroom.

9. Will the school provide technical support?

A: Other than assisting with minor problems, our school will not be able to help with technical support of any student-owned device.

10. How will safety and security of the devices be provided?

A: Each student is ultimately responsible for the security of his/her personal device. No portable device should ever be left unattended! When not in use, the device should be in a secured location. Unattended devices will be turned in to the school administration. Per school division policy, FCBOE is not responsible for loss, damage or theft of any personal electronic device. Prevention of loss, theft or damage is the responsibility of the student and parent/guardian.

11. What Internet security will be provided?

A: Student access to the Internet through our “FCBOE-GUEST” Wi-Fi network is filtered in the same way as student access through wired computers at school. As noted above, other users of the network can not access the devices of other users on the network.

12. Should students access the Internet via private service providers like Verizon or AT&T?

A: Students are prohibited from using 3G or 4G wireless access to the Internet using private subscriptions through their own Internet Service Provider. Students should ensure that service is turned off when entering the school building.

13. Are teachers required to allow students to use personally owned devices in the classroom?

A: Teachers determine whether the use of privately owned devices is appropriate and will support the intended learning outcomes of each lesson. If a student is asked not to use his/her device in class, the student will follow those instructions.

14. Will students be able to print from their personally owned devices?

A: No.

15. When can special device features, for example the camera or audio or video recording, be used?

A: No unauthorized photographs or audio or video recording will be permitted. Specific permission will be granted by teachers for taking pictures or recording as needed to accomplish specific instructional activities.

16. Will students charge personally owned devices during the day?

A: No. Students will not be able to charge their personal devices during the school day. Students should bring a fully charged device to school and put it on sleep mode or turn it off when not in use.

17. How is the school teaching students about digital citizenship?

A: We are teaching your children how to be safe online, how to use technology to communicate academically, productively, and respectfully. Families are encouraged to get involved with the technology that their children are using. Common Sense Media is dedicated to improving the lives of kids and families by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive in a world of media and technology.

18. What do I do if a student reports that they are being bullied by someone using a personal device?

A: This is a violation of the Student Code of Conduct. The incident should be reported to a teacher, counselor, or campus administrator.

19. How will the teachers know who has BYOT privileges and who does not?

A: Homeroom teachers will have a roster of students who have turned in Acceptable Use Policy Forms. They will share with other faculty members as needed.