October 22, 2024
Dear AW Families,
We are writing to inform you of important updates regarding monitoring student devices following the passage of Ohio Senate Bill 29 (SB29). This legislation introduces new rules about how and when schools can access and monitor school-issued devices/resources, and we want to ensure you are aware of these changes.
Device/Resource Monitoring
Please be aware that the District, either directly or through a technology provider, is able to monitor school-issued devices/resources (as those terms are defined by R.C. 3319.327). This monitoring generally takes place for educational purposes, including instruction, technical support, exam proctoring, and/or as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA).
However, the District may also generally monitor use of these devices where:
- permitted under a judicial warrant;
- the District or technology provider is notified or becomes aware that the school-issued device is lost or stolen;
- the activity is necessary to prevent or respond to a threat to life or safety, and the access is limited to that purpose;
- the activity is necessary to comply with federal or state law; and/or
- the activity is necessary to participate in federal or state funding programs.
This monitoring may include the:
- location-tracking feature of a school-issued device;
- audio or visual receiving, transmitting or recording features of a school-issued device; or
- student interactions with a school-issued device, including, but not limited to keystrokes and web browsing activities.
Please note that the District has NOT implemented any new or changed monitoring services.
This notice is a new requirement per Ohio Senate Bill 29 (SB29), which becomes effective on October 24. This policy aims to strike a balance between protecting students' safety and privacy, while maintaining transparency about how school-issued devices are monitored.
What Can You Expect?
Should any school personnel or technology providers need to investigate your child’s device/resources, you will receive a notification within 72 hours, as required by SB29. This notification will clearly explain:
- Why the device/resource was accessed
- What action was taken
- What safety concern, if any, prompted the access
Our priority is always the safety and privacy of all students, and we will continue to follow these guidelines responsibly. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Thank you for your attention and ongoing support of our school community.
Sincerely,
Kevin Herman, Interim Superintendent
Chris Hamady, Director of Technology
Anthony Wayne Local Schools