Keeping on top of student data privacy
Source: SmartBlog on Education in partnership with GreyED Solutions
Student data privacy is becoming a larger part of the education discussion. All stakeholders – educators, administrators and parents – are responsible for ensuring the security and proper use of student data. As districts conduct discussions around this topic, here are some key points they should consider:
- Review Internet Use Policies to include language around student data privacy;
- Outline the process of approving software applications that requires collection and synchronization of student data;
- Evaluate contracting procedures to include a student data privacy agreement with each software-licensing contract;
- Ensure teachers are aware of the Internet Use Policies, district protocols for protecting student data, and the software approval process (including freeware); and,
- Train parents to increase their awareness of the district’s role in protecting student data.
Establishing solid best practices within your district is essential to ensuring the integrity of your data. Additional resources on student data privacy are available from Common Sense Media, CoSN and ISTE.
Dr. Kecia Ray is the executive director of learning technologies at Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools. She oversees the design, implementation, and evaluation of instructional technology programs including instructional design for online and blended learning environments and library services. Dr. Ray is a member of the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) and chair of the ISTE Board of Directors. She also serves on the board of eLearn Institute and continues to serve on the Davidson County Community Education Commission and TennShare Board. She was appointed by Governor Haslem to the Advisory Council on Alternative Education in 2013. She served on the Board of Directors for the Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education from 2007 to 2012.