Technology at School
When technology is combined with the right instruction from skilled staff in our schools, these educational opportunities can help students “power up” their knowledge for success today and for the future.
Personally-Owned Devices (POD) like Chromebooks and laptops can be utilized in class and are encouraged to help facilitate learning for students in Grades 4 through 12. For information on cellphones and tablets, which are classified as Personal Communication Devices, please click here.
Students will use these devices responsibly, and only with the permission and direction of the teacher or other staff member, according to school policy.
One-to-One Program
Through our One-to-One program, students are able to bring a Personally-Owned Device (POD) into the classroom for educational purposes.
Generally, a POD is a Chromebook or laptop where the specific intended use is to facilitate learning. Students will use their POD responsibly, and only with the permission and direction of the teacher or other staff member.
Chromebooks are recommended for our students due to their price, battery life, fast startup, and usability. Students may also use laptops if they so choose. These PODs will connect to a dedicated EICS WiFi network, which is available at all of our schools and restricts access to certain internet websites and social media platforms.
If a student does not bring their own device for learning, and it is mandatory that technology be used for an assignment or lesson, it is the school's responsibility to supply the device.
A POD should meet the following requirements:
- Internet ready (preferably with the Chrome browser)
- Sufficient battery life for a full school day (6 hours)
- Easily labelled for identification
- 802.11ac Wi-Fi support (this info can be found on the box the device came in)
- Able to operate G Suite applications by Google
- Screen size of at least seven inches
- Physical keyboard
For more information, please see our Frequently Asked Questions about One-to-One.
Personal Communication Devices in Schools
Personal Communication Devices (PCDs), which include cellphones, tablets, smartwatches, and earbuds, are not to be operated during regularly scheduled instructional time, or during any school-sponsored activity, unless approved by the classroom teacher or Principal/designate to facilitate learning activities.
For more information about the Division’s approach to PCDs in schools, please review our AP 145 - Use of Personal Communication Devices (PCDs).
For further questions specific to your child’s school and how it will implement AP 145, this information will be shared by the schools ahead of the school year.
Social Media in Schools
All PODs and PCDs on the Elk Island Catholic Schools WiFi network are blocked from accessing social media sites.