Technology
At Richmond County Schools, we are committed to enhancing the lives of students and families by providing reliable information and education necessary to thrive in today's digital world. As children spend increasing amounts of time engaged with media and digital activities, it significantly impacts their social, emotional, and physical development.
Our mission is to educate all students about appropriate online behavior, including the safe use of social networking websites and raising awareness about cyberbullying. By equipping students with the knowledge and skills to navigate the digital landscape responsibly, we aim to foster a safe and supportive online environment for all.
What is CIPA
CIPA stands for Children’s Internet Protection Act, a federal law that requires schools and libraries that receive E-rate discounts for internet access or connections to prevent minors from accessing inappropriate or harmful content online. CIPA compliance also involves ensuring the safety of children when they use chat rooms, email, or other forms of direct electronic communication.
What CIPA requires
Schools and libraries subject to CIPA may not receive the discounts offered by the E-rate program unless they certify that they have an Internet safety policy that includes technology protection measures. The protection measures must block or filter Internet access to pictures that are: (a) obscene; (b) child pornography; or (c) harmful to minors (for computers that are accessed by minors). Before adopting this Internet safety policy, schools and libraries must provide reasonable notice and hold at least one public hearing or meeting to address the proposal.
Richmond County Schools takes the following measures to be CIPA compliant:
- Internet Filter on all staff and student devices
- Has established an Technology Acceptable Use Policy
- Provides training to student on internet safety, cyberbullying and netiquette
- Provides software to monitor student online activity
Digital Safety
Katherine Bendell
Director of Technology
KatherineBendell@richmond.k12.nc.us
910.582.5860 ext. 1220
As mandated by the state law GS115C-102.6, North Carolina has developed a state educational technology plan designed to enhance teaching and learning within all its schools.
Technology tools enable teachers and administrators to work more productively, encourage student creativity, promote student self-direction and help students develop skills that prepare them for responsible citizenship within the nation and world. The Richmond County School system is dedicated to providing equipment training and support to utilize the power of technology in the creation of an optimal learning environment for RCS students.
Richmond County Schools Internet Safety
Policy Code: 3226/4205