Policy & Student Use Expectations
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What has Katy ISD done historically with technology for student use?
The district has historically implemented a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiative, while also making available devices to those students who did not have access to one at home. The challenge with BYOD is that any device (i.e., phone, iPad, Mac book, or laptop) could be brought to the classroom, which would oftentimes require teachers to spend a significant amount of time troubleshooting device issues, access, and capability. By standardizing devices, more time is spent on instruction.
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Are students required to participate in the district’s CLASS 1:1 Student to Device initiative?
Yes. All students in grades 3-12 will be issued a Chromebook and will be required to utilize the Chromebook for school assignments and activities while on campus. Once a student receives his/her district-issued Chromebook, they will no longer need to bring a personal device, such as a cell phone or iPad, to class during the instructional school day.
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Can students use their own personal device during the instructional school day?
No. Once students are issued a Katy ISD Chromebook, it will be the only personal computing system they will be allowed to use throughout the instructional school day.
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Are there changes to elementary and secondary cell phone policies?
The district’s cell phone policy will be updated to include references to the CLASS 1:1 Student to Device initiative. Once students are issued a Katy ISD Chromebook, restrictions specific to personal devices, such as cell phones, during the school day will be provided. This information will also be included in the updated 2024-2025 Student Handbook and Discipline Management Plan.
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Are there consequences for inappropriate use of the Katy ISD Chromebook?
Yes. Students are expected to adhere to the Student Responsible Use Guidelines for Technology within the Discipline Management Plan. The responsible use guidelines address appropriate use of technology and will be provided to students and parents during the Chromebook check-out process.
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How can I help my student be a better digital citizen?
Katy ISD has several Digital Citizenship and online safety tools on the Digital Citizenship webpage. Additionally, campus library media specialists provide lessons around digital citizenship throughout the school year.
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If my student moves to a different district, can I take my Chromebook with me?
No. If relocating to another school district, all Katy ISD-issued technology must be returned upon withdrawal from Katy ISD.
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Can I personalize my Chromebook home screen?
No. There is a standard interface and home screen installed on all district-issued Chromebooks.
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Can I put stickers or other decoration on my Chromebook?
No. The district-issued Chromebook is the property of Katy ISD, even while it is checked out to the student. District-issued Chromebooks are secured in clear cases and labeled with the student’s name.
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What if my Chromebook runs out of battery during the instructional day?
Students are expected to bring their Chromebook and charger to school. Students should also routinely charge their Chromebooks each night in preparation for the following day. However, should a student’s Chromebook require temporary battery charging while at school, the campus will have limited chargers available to students.
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Will all classwork, assessments, and other assignments be online?
Students will continue to learn and engage in their schoolwork through a variety of modes, including hands-on experiences in the classroom, paper/pencil tasks, and digital-based activities.
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If a student leaves his/her Chromebook at home during the instructional day, will a loaner be provided?
Yes. All campuses will have guidelines in place for students to request a loaner Chromebook in the event that the student leaves his/her Chromebook at home.
