by Espen Swanson
Use of electronic devices is increasing at WSA, as the school finds ways to utilize them in order to simplify processes and deepen learning. Over the summer, families received letters from Head of School Barrie Hillman, about the new policy regarding electronics. The policy requires each student to own a laptop, and imposes new restrictions on Internet usage. However, many students were not really aware of the policy, even after two weeks of school. "Not really, no. I signed it, but I don't really know what it is," said student Eleanor Uyyek (8th). "It's about the same as last year, except that they tried to block things," Lulu Horn (9th) offered.
Regarding internet use, the student handbook states that "any personal e-mailing, chatting or web-based calls, Internet access, gaming, data-streaming or use of social media not intended for school assignments, or any activity considered to be cyber-bullying, is prohibited." In response to whether students can still find ways to get around the newly implemented Internet limitations, Barrie said, "If kids want to do shenanigans, they're going to do it, but let's not invite them." As far as cell phone use, she added, "part of what we're doing in not allowing cell phones is protecting kids from themselves. Everything is retrievable, even if you delete it, it's not gone."
Knowledge about the policy is mixed, though staff members are better informed. "My understanding is that it is a bring your own device policy, which is new." teacher Kim Uyyek said. Another teacher, Jen Silvernale, said that she prefers WSA's policy to those of previous teaching posts, "because students need limitations with some level of freedom." Students have also noticed that some things that they believe can enhance their educational experience have been blocked. "Music sites. I work better with music," affirmed Jackson Vogt (9th).
The new policy is certainly a change from previous years, now requiring laptops, and blocking some sites from student use. Many students aren't fully aware of all of the changes from previous years, but Barrie says this is just a transitional policy and she has big plans for the school on the technology front. We'll just have to see what the future holds.
Regarding internet use, the student handbook states that "any personal e-mailing, chatting or web-based calls, Internet access, gaming, data-streaming or use of social media not intended for school assignments, or any activity considered to be cyber-bullying, is prohibited." In response to whether students can still find ways to get around the newly implemented Internet limitations, Barrie said, "If kids want to do shenanigans, they're going to do it, but let's not invite them." As far as cell phone use, she added, "part of what we're doing in not allowing cell phones is protecting kids from themselves. Everything is retrievable, even if you delete it, it's not gone."
Knowledge about the policy is mixed, though staff members are better informed. "My understanding is that it is a bring your own device policy, which is new." teacher Kim Uyyek said. Another teacher, Jen Silvernale, said that she prefers WSA's policy to those of previous teaching posts, "because students need limitations with some level of freedom." Students have also noticed that some things that they believe can enhance their educational experience have been blocked. "Music sites. I work better with music," affirmed Jackson Vogt (9th).
The new policy is certainly a change from previous years, now requiring laptops, and blocking some sites from student use. Many students aren't fully aware of all of the changes from previous years, but Barrie says this is just a transitional policy and she has big plans for the school on the technology front. We'll just have to see what the future holds.