Middle School Technology Policy

Chromebook BYOD Policy, Responsibilities, and Technology

Code of Conduct

Purpose

Chromebook Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Policy 

General Guidelines

• Middle School students (grades 6-8) must have a personal Chromebook meeting minimum specifications and bring it charged on the first day of school.
• Parents and students must read and understand this policy.
• Chromebook choice should consider the Auto Update Expiration (AUE) date, ensuring software and security updates for at least 3 years past the start of 6th grade.

To help you make an informed decision:

• Find the AUE before you buy: [link to tutorial]
• Check your current Chromebook's AUE: [link to steps]

Each device must meet these minimum system specifications: 

Minimum Requirements:

• Operating System: Chrome OS
• Memory: 6GB RAM
• Display: 11.6" screen (larger than 14" discouraged)
• Keyboard: Integral keyboard (not detachable)
• Age: Ensure the AUE extends at least 3 years past the start of 6th grade.
• Storage: 64GB storage                                   

Recommended Specifications:

• Memory: 8GB RAM or more
• Display: 13" - 14" screen
• Touchscreen: Optional
• Stylus: Optional
• Warranty: Purchase protection plan from vendor or manufacturer.
• Age: Ensure the AUE extends at least 4 years past the start of 6th grade.
• Storage: 128GB storage or more

Families receiving need-based financial assistance for tuition may request that the school provide a device at a reduced cost. 

TCS BYOD Responsibilities 

Student Responsibilities:

• Bring a fully charged device daily.
• Care for the device and charger; the student is liable for loss, damage, or repair costs.
• Use devices only for academic purposes during school hours.
• Log in to only their TCS account and use the school network exclusively.
• Keep the device visible during use; no use in bathrooms or unsupervised areas.
• No gaming, social media, music, or movies unrelated to lessons during school hours.
• Obtain express permission before recording or sharing any media at school.
• Comply with school device inspections upon request.

School Responsibilities:

• Provide resources, network safeguards (firewall, content filtering), and supervise on-campus technology use.
• Educate students in digital citizenship and safe, respectful technology use.
• Communicate behavior expectations to students and parents.
• Provide same-day loaner devices if available, but not for home use.

Parent Responsibilities:

• Understand the technologies students use and monitor off-campus use.
• Set and enforce household rules on technology use.
• Discuss expectations openly with children and supervise communications appropriately.

Technology Code of Conduct 

Academic Honesty:

• No plagiarism; always cite sources, including AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT). AI may assist, but it cannot complete assignments.

Privacy and Access:

• Use only assigned accounts and never share passwords.
• Do not share private information about yourself or others.
• Use campus computers and the Internet only for educational purposes under teacher supervision.
• Personal phones or smart devices are prohibited during school, except when express permission is given by a teacher or staff member.

Appropriate Use:

• Use respectful language and behavior online.
• No harassment, bullying, or posting false/defamatory content.
• Report abuse or inappropriate content to TCS staff immediately.

Respect for School Property:

• Do not damage, modify, or interfere with school technology or security.
• Misuse may lead to disciplinary actions, including repair costs.

Supervision and Monitoring:

• School staff will monitor device use on campus to ensure compliance with policies.
• Devices may be inspected at any time for health, safety, or discipline concerns.
• Policy violations may result in the removal of the device, loss of privileges, or further disciplinary measures as outlined in the Parent Handbook.