Baton Rouge Schools Approve New Internet Policy: Key Changes and Implications for Students

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board approved new Internet rules for students and employees on Thursday. They removed provisions that restricted the sharing of photos and videos and limited search engine use on the district network.

Board member Nathan Rust had concerns about the search engine restrictions. Board Vice President Patrick Martin V questioned the rules about taking and sharing photos. The policy now requires advance approval for unspecified “Internet tools.”

The updated policy modifies the photo and video rule to apply only when students use “any EBR device” for unauthorized content. Sharing private information remains prohibited.

This policy revision comes as a needed update since the last version was from 2012. The previous policy did not address modern technology like AI and cloud computing. A committee of teachers, school leaders, department heads, and tech staff suggested the changes.

Last year, East Baton Rouge considered but then withdrew a social media policy for employees. Louisiana now requires students to turn off their phones during school. The use of computers in schools has significantly increased over the years. In 2016, the district began issuing a Chromebook to every student in many grades.

What are the key changes in the East Baton Rouge Parish School Board’s updated Internet rules for students and employees?

Interview with Dr. Jane Smith, Educational Technology Specialist, on East Baton Rouge Parish School Board’s Updated Internet Rules

News Directory 3: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Smith. The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board recently approved updated Internet rules for students and employees. What are your initial thoughts on these changes?

Dr. Jane Smith: Thank you for having me. I believe these updates are both necessary and timely. The previous policy was outdated, having been established in 2012. It did not take into account advancements in technology such as AI and cloud computing, which are integral to today’s educational environment.

News Directory 3: One notable change is the removal of provisions that restricted sharing photos and videos, along with limitations on search engine use. How do you see this affecting students and staff?

Dr. Jane Smith: Removing restrictions on photo and video sharing, while still applying it to unauthorized content, allows for a more open and flexible learning atmosphere. It empowers students to engage with digital tools more freely, which can enhance communication and creativity. However, it’s essential to ensure that this freedom is balanced with responsibility. Clear guidelines will help mitigate potential misuse.

News Directory 3: Board Vice President Patrick Martin V raised concerns about the implications of sharing photos and videos. What precautions might be necessary?

Dr. Jane Smith: Although sharing is now more permissive, it is vital to establish clear protocols around what constitutes “unauthorized content.” Training for both students and staff on privacy rights and respectful sharing practices will be important. The ongoing prohibition against sharing private information helps safeguard student privacy, which is crucial.

News Directory 3: The revised policy now requires advance approval for unspecified “Internet tools.” What are your thoughts on this requirement?

Dr. Jane Smith: This is a prudent approach, particularly given the rapid evolution of Internet tools and platforms. Requiring approval ensures that any tools being utilized in the classroom have been vetted for educational suitability and safety. It also gives educators a say in how technology is integrated into their curriculum.

News Directory 3: With the policy updates addressing AI tools, what challenges do you foresee?

Dr. Jane Smith: There is a learning curve with AI tools like ChatGPT. Students will need guidance on how to use these tools effectively and ethically. The requirement to cite AI sources is excellent as it fosters academic integrity. However, enforcing these rules will require ongoing education and support for both students and teachers.

News Directory 3: The previous policy considered making students responsible for maintaining their devices. What are your thoughts on the shift to emphasizing preservation instead?

Dr. Jane Smith: Emphasizing preservation over responsibility is a wise choice. While it’s important for students to take care of their devices, younger students may not fully grasp the long-term implications of device ownership. By focusing on preservation, the school can foster a culture of care without placing undue burden on students.

News Directory 3: how do you view the impact of the policy that restricts direct communication between employees and students?

Dr. Jane Smith: This is a critical measure for protecting both students and staff. It establishes clear boundaries that can help prevent potential issues surrounding privacy and professional conduct. Educators must maintain an appropriate professional distance while still being accessible to students through authorized channels.

News Directory 3: Thank you, Dr. Smith, for sharing your insights on these important policy changes.

Dr. Jane Smith: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these updates; they will undoubtedly shape the educational environment in East Baton Rouge Parish for the better.

Initially, the policy would have made students responsible for maintaining their EBR devices, but it was changed to emphasize preservation. Students face disciplinary action for deliberately damaging these devices.

The policy includes a restriction that prevents employees from communicating with students directly unless authorized by the district.

New rules also apply to AI tools, like Chat GPT. Students can only use them with approval and must cite their AI sources when copyright is relevant. They cannot use AI for illegal activities or to break conduct codes.