Telos Academy Internet & Technology Use Policy

Purpose

At Telos Academy, technology is used to support meaningful learning, creativity, communication, research, and responsible digital citizenship. We believe technology should enhance education without replacing hands-on experiences, outdoor learning, real-world relationships, discussion, and creative thinking.

This policy exists to help ensure that all students use technology safely, respectfully, and responsibly while participating in school programs and activities.

Philosophy of Technology Use

Telos Academy values occasional, balanced technology use. While digital tools can enrich learning, we prioritize:

  • hands-on and project-based education

  • outdoor and nature-connected learning

  • face-to-face collaboration

  • creativity and independent thinking

  • healthy screen habits.

Technology is viewed as a tool for learning — not entertainment during the school day unless specifically approved by staff for educational purposes.

Screen Use in the Primary Years

Young children learn best best through real-life, hands-on experiences rather than screens. During the primary years, students benefit most from movement, outdoor play, imaginative exploration, conversation, reading physical books, creating with their hands, and developing strong social and emotional connections.

For this reason, primary students will remain screen free during the school day except under very rare and intentional circumstances approved by staff for a specific educational purpose.

We believe childhood should be protected as a time of curiosity, creativity, wonder, and connection to the real world. Technology will be introduced gradually and intentionally as students mature and are developmentally ready to engage with digital tools responsibly and purposefully.

Acceptable Use

Older students may use school technology, internet access, and approved digital tools for:

  • educational research

  • class assignments and projects

  • creative and entrepreneurial projects

  • collaborative learning activities directed by teachers

Students are expected to:

  • use respectful and appropriate language online

  • follow teacher instructions regarding devices and internet use

  • care for school-owned devices and equipment

  • report unsafe, inappropriate, or concerning online behavior to staff

Unacceptable Use

The following behaviors are prohibited:

  • accessing inappropriate, violent, explicit, or harmful content

  • cyberbullying, harassment, or unkind online behavior

  • using technology to distract from learning

  • gaming, streaming, or recreational browsing without permission

  • sharing passwords or personal account information

  • downloading unauthorized software or apps

  • attempting to bypass school internet filters or security systems

  • photographing or recording others without permission

  • damaging school devices or equipment intentionally.

Online Safety & Privacy

Students should:

  • protect personal information online

  • never share passwords with peers

  • avoid communicating with strangers online through school devices or accounts

  • immediately report unsafe or concerning online interactions to staff

Photos, videos, or student work may not be shared publicly without appropriate permission from the school and families.

Device Expectations

If students are permitted to use school-owned or personal devices:

  • devices must be used only at approved times

  • devices should remain in designated areas when not in use

  • students are expected to handle equipment respectfully and carefully

Telos Academy may establish screen-free periods or spaces throughout the school day to support attention, creativity, and connection.

Monitoring & Filtering

School internet access may be filtered and monitored to help maintain student safety and appropriate use.

Students should understand that use of school devices, networks, and accounts carries limited privacy expectations when necessary to ensure safety and policy compliance.

Consequences for Misuse

Violations of this policy may result in:

  • a verbal reminder or warning

  • temporary loss of technology privileges

  • parent/guardian communication

  • restorative conversations or consequences

  • further disciplinary action depending on the severity of the incident

Serious violations involving safety, harassment, or intentional misuse may result in immediate removal of device or internet privileges.

Parent Partnership

We believe healthy technology habits are best supported through partnership between school and home. Families are encouraged to:

  • discuss responsible internet use with their children

  • support balanced screen habits at home

  • communicate concerns with staff when needed.