Early in the academic year, we engaged students in a variety of information sessions designed to make clear the various expectations and opportunities at RLC.

One topic discussed was the use of technology on campus. As many of you are aware, the Ontario government has implemented new rules for cellphones and other devices in schools. The provincial policy has been developed to support student achievement and well-being by keeping students focused on learning through removing distractions and promoting mental health.

RLC had already begun work on an approach to technology on our campus when the province announced its new rules for devices. Over the summer, we developed our bespoke RLC Technology Use Guidelines to share with students and families. We will be implementing these guidelines for the 2024-25 academic year and hope they reflect both our unique community context and our goals for student success and well-being.

The RLC Technology Use Guidelines are designed to:

• Provide clear and consistent guidelines to staff and students for technology use on campus;
• Promote community-mindedness alongside intentional and responsible technology use;
• Promote balance, health, and wellness in daily activities. 

You may review and download the guidelines here.

These guidelines were put into effect on Monday, September 16, 2024 after outtrips. They generally apply to the academic day (Monday-Friday 8:30-4:30), though we expect students to respect the guidelines outside of school hours when taking part in community events, field trips etc. They include expectations for cell phones, headphones/earbuds, and other devices. 

These expectations were shared with students. They had the opportunity to ask questions to better understand why RLC has adopted these guidelines and approach, how to successfully meet school expectations, and where to seek support when it feels challenging to disconnect. We know more questions will arise as the year unfolds and are always available to meet with students to support them as they learn to navigate responsible technology use.

We know you may have questions as well about our approach, how we will support your students, and ways in which you can partner with RLC to manage technology both at school and at home. We invite you to talk with your student about the guidelines and to please reach out at any time with questions or concerns.

There is lots of detail in the guidelines, but there is also one overarching theme we hope will guide us: let's turn devices off and put them away when we are learning, moving, creating, serving, and gathering as a community. 

We will review these guidelines in a few months to see what is working well, what is tricky, and where we might improve; in that process, we will welcome feedback. These guidelines are a starting point and we will continue to refine them in ways that make sense for RLC.

This is important work; thank you for partnering with us to support community-mindedness alongside intentional and responsible technology use.

‍