Parent Resources
Columbia Heights Public Schools has several structures in place to create a safe, effective and respectful environment surrounding the use of technology in our schools. The documents and links below outline our district policy, parent agreement forms, and school rules for technology use.
Policy 524
In making decisions regarding student and employee access to the school district computer system and the Internet, including electronic communications, the school district considers its own stated educational mission, goals, and objectives. Electronic information research skills are now fundamental to preparation of citizens and future employees. Access to the school district computer system and to the Internet enables students and employees to explore thousands of libraries, databases, bulletin boards, and other resources while exchanging messages with people around the world. The school district expects that faculty will blend thoughtful use of the school district computer system and the Internet throughout the curriculum and will provide guidance and instruction to students in their use.
Technology & Media Agreement Digital Form
It is the policy of Columbia Heights Public Schools to require that parents sign an agreement to the Internet, Technology and Cell Phone Acceptable Use and Safety Policy upon the start of each new school year. The student’s access to internet, school accounts, and/or district-owned devices will be blocked until the school receives this form from the parents. Parents must complete one form for each student.
Device Insurance Forms for Grades K-12
9th-12th Grade High School English/Spanish
6th-8th Grade Columbia Academy English/Spanish
K-5th Grade English / Spanish
(Highland, North Park, and Valley View)
Tech Tips & Safety Resources
With the world at their fingertips through the use of technology, students participate in a much bigger community online than they do face-to-face. Along with the benefits and learning experiences of this larger community, there is also added risk of exposure to potentially harmful situations. Fortunately, we can equip our kids to make smart and safe choices online. Use the resources linked below to keep yourself informed and open discussions with your child.
Digital Citizenship: It Takes a Village Graphic
Technology can open new worlds and new tools for our students. It can also open up new questions for parents about how and when children should be using technology. Use the resources linked here to inform yourself and open discussions with your child about age-appropriate, responsible, effective technology use both at school and at home.
Parent Concern Page
This webpage from Common Sense Media outlines trending and key questions and concerns parents may have about children's use of technology. The website features FAQs, articles, and videos, sorted by topic. Example: “How much screen time is OK for my kids?”
What is…?
This Youtube playlist from Common Sense Media offers a series of short videos that explain key current apps and trends you may hear students talking about. Find out why these apps are so popular and what to watch for. Example: “What is Snapchat?”
FBI Safe Online Surfing
A free, education program for students in grades 3-8 that teaches cyber safety.
5 Steps to a Healthy Media Diet
Managing your family's device use can be challenging. Learn five simple steps to a healthy media diet for you and your kids.
Common Sense en Espanol
Te ayudamos a manejar la tecnología y los medios en la vida de tus hijos. Ejemplo: “Los mensajes de texto” o “La privacidad y los niños”
Quick Tips for Parents
Get advice on all things media and technology for your kids and teens in this Youtube. Example: “How to help your kids search effectively online”
5 Internet Safety Tips for Kids
Discover five ways kids can stay safe online in this video.
Be Internet Awesome
To make the most of the Internet, kids need to be prepared to make smart decisions. Be Internet Awesome teaches kids the fundamentals of digital citizenship and safety so they can explore the online world with confidence. This program and game, created by Google, provides an environment for elementary-age students to learn more about digital citizenship and safety topics. Access is free!
Digital Citizenship Curriculum
Elementary
Curriculum videos for students in grades K-2 and 3-5. Example: “Power of Words”
Middle
Curriculum videos for students in grades 6-8. Example: “Oversharing: Think Before You Post”
High School
Curriculum videos for students in grades 6-8. Example: “Abbas' Story: Pride in Your Digital Footprint”
Help! My student's device isn't working properly!
Columbia Academy Students
Students at Columbia Academy who need tech support may visit the technology office (inside the media center) during the first 15 minutes of each block. Students who visit the tech office should bring a pass from their teacher and their device. Students will be required to sign in when they visit the tech office.
1st Block: 8:35-8:50 a.m.
2nd Block: 10:05-10:20 a.m.
3rd Block: 11:30-12:15 p.m.
4th Block: 1:25-1:40 p.m.
High School Students
Students at Columbia Heights High School who need tech support may visit the technology office (across from the media center) before school (7:45-9:00 a.m.), 9:48 - 10:30 a.m. and during advisory. Students will be required to sign in when they visit the tech office.