In Henrico County, the Code of Student Conduct specifies expectations for behavior and punishments for misbehavior, but the code needs improvement in the responsible use of technology. The only things covered by the code are the proper use of a school-loaned laptop and cyber bullying.
More specific rules about social networking and other technology-related issues could help guide students, teachers and administrators.
If students use school laptops, they are prohibited from inappropriate games, videos and illegally downloaded music; however, no specific rules prohibit students from having any of these on their own devices like cell phones, MP3 players, or laptops. Many students do not understand that they are violating school policy by bringing devices to school containing items that are prohibited.
Another issue concerns social networking. Administrators can see posts that students put on sites like Twitter and Facebook, and students have been reprimanded for posting things from their own devices.
Although many students feel they should not be punished for things they post online related to school, they need to realize it can be used against them. Principal Tracie Omohundro said administrators cannot punish a student for something placed in a public forum, but they may use a public forum as an investigative tool.
If Henrico County improves its code of conduct regarding the use of technology, students will be better informed about what to post and what not to post on the Internet.
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