What is the District doing to ensure student data security, privacy and safety?

Our commitment to Student Safety and Student data Privacy and Security is on-going and reflects a continued effort to learn and educate in order to stay up-to-date with this very important issue.

Administrative Requirements for the Use of Websites, Computer Applications and Online Resources

The Washoe County School District has created requirements that reflect current legislation around student safety and student data privacy and security that helps guide schools in the selection and use of websites, computer applications and online resources.  WCSD has a rigorous vetting process to ensure student privacy and security while using digital learning tools in the classroom.

Student Security, Privacy and Safety App Review

The Washoe County School District has created a tool that assists in evaluating and choosing apps that are compliant with federal and state regulations. Applicable laws include the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), Children’s Online Privacy Protection Rule (COPPA), and Nevada SB403.

This Contract Review Tool uses a rubric that reflects requirements of federal regulations and aligns with the rigorous vetting of apps being done by the District and our partners.

Approved Digital Learning Tools can be found here.

App Review Team

The Washoe County School District has assembled a team of educators and administrators with expertise in Digital Learning, Information Technology, Security, Contracting, and Legal requirements to evaluate apps for use in the district. Apps are evaluated using a strict rubric developed to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations and best practices regarding student data privacy and security. Apps vetted by the team that meet the criteria may be approved by the District.

On-Going Professional Development of Principals and Teachers

The Washoe County School District provides on-going access to professional development for teachers and principals so that schools can make informed decisions about the apps they choose and maintain a commitment to student data privacy without hindering innovation within the district. Schools will be provided with District-created or third-party materials to educate students on their own data privacy and security.

Data Privacy Language in District Contracts

When a vendor requires any part of a student’s education record beyond directory information and the District deems this vendor’s product to be beneficial to our students, a contract needs to be created to ensure the security and privacy of that data. Teachers cannot initiate or sign contracts.

Please refer to the contract procedures webpage for a detailed description.