Port Clinton schools to allow limited cell phone, laptop use

9/14/2010

PORT CLINTON — Port Clinton High School has bowed to the advance of technology and will allow students use wireless devices such as laptops and cell phones during the school day, with certain limitations.

The school has installed a wireless network throughout the building.

In the past, students were allowed to use cell phones, iPods, or electronic devices between classes and during lunch.

But this school year, students are encouraged to bring their laptop computers or netbooks to school for use in class and to assist in their education.

Students using wireless devices must sign a form, along with their parents, then register their devices with the technology department.

Each student device will be assigned a user name and password to be able to log on to the district wireless network, which includes Internet filters.

School officials said that with the filters in place, the Internet access complies with the Children's Internet Protection Act and allows students to safely surf the Web at school.

The technology will allow kindergarten students to learn with iPods, and a multimedia class will begin in fourth grade. A math program at Port Clinton Middle School will offer online support to students and parents.