Online safety and security refers to measures taken to protect your child in the digital world. It includes security protocols, safeguarding personal information, privacy policies, and educating students about online risks.
Regular monitoring of online activities is conducted to ensure early detection and resolution of any potential issues.
The following safeguards are used to reduce the risk of accessing or viewing inappropriate content online and for student safety.
Digital Citizenship
Students receive appropriate instruction on digital citizenship and responsible use of technology that aligns with the Ontario Curriculum documents. Teachers will review the Student ICT Appropriate Use Agreement with students at the start of each school year/semester.
To learn more about Digital Citizenship refer to the Mental Health & Well-Being in Online Environments resource. There is an entire section on Digital Citizenship for students, parents/guardians, and educators.
Internet Filtering and Blocking
The SCDSB uses appropriate internet filtering to reduce the risk of students accessing inappropriate content online. However, no software is capable of blocking all inappropriate material. Filtering is used on board-owned computers and personally owned devices connected to the board network.
Classroom Supervision
School staff monitor by observation and through online programs to support focussed, purposeful use of ICT when a student is online using board-owned technology during the school day.
Code of Conduct/Discipline Procedures
The school Code of Conduct (see student agenda) sets out rules for student behaviour including online activity. Inappropriate use is subject to discipline in accordance with the school discipline policy and procedure. Students who are experiencing and/or witness any form of harassing, defaming and/or bullying shall report to a school official.
Third-Party Application Review
Applications and tools are reviewed by the Educational Computing Network of Ontario (ECNO) for security and privacy before being approved for student use.
**Students should not expect that online work is private. Staff may access student digital media workspaces for assessment and support purposes, to maintain system integrity, and to ensure that students are using the system responsibly and safely. A search may be conducted if there is reasonable cause to suspect that a student has violated the law, the Code of Conduct (p.4) or the Student ICT Appropriate Use Agreement.