It is NTC’s policy that employees shall limit their use of personal wireless telecommunication devices when employees are performing work-related functions in school or at school-related activities. Wireless telecommunication devices include, but are not limited to, cellular telephones, pagers, personal digital assistants, camera technology, phones with audio record capabilities, or similar devices. The term “cell phone” includes but is not limited to cellular phones, mobile phones, VoIP, iPhones, smart phones, internet phones or similar devices.

Any use of telecommunication devices during work hours should not interfere with assigned duties and related professional responsibilities.

Personal telecommunication devices shall be turned off and out-of-sight in locations deemed “private areas.” “Private areas” include but are not limited to restrooms, locker rooms, and changing rooms. The use of audio/visual recording and camera features are strictly prohibited in these areas.

Many existing devices have the capability for photographs, video, or audio recording. Staff members must not record conversations or events via audio or video without first advising ALL affected individuals of the intent to make a recording. Employees are prohibited from using cell phones and other telecommunication devices while in areas such as restrooms, locker rooms, and changing rooms. Employees should only share their personal telecommunication devices with students for educational or academic purposes or in an emergency situation. In instances involving students, no audio or video recording may be made without the written authorization of the Campus Director and the Superintendent. Administrative approval of recordings of students will take into consideration (1) whether prior approval for recording has been obtained from parents or guardians of students and (2) whether the recording would identify a specific category of students such as special education students.

Staff members are required to limit communication with students via computers or wireless telecommunication devices to matters concerning the student’s education or extra-curricular activities for which the staff member has assigned responsibility. Even when communication involves education or district related matters, employees should avoid frequent electronic mailing - particularly when messaging is to a single student. Communications to students must, at all times, be professional in words and tone, related to school matters, and limited to essential communications.

In instances where a student’s communications, with the instructor, sponsor or those in similar relationship to the student, are inappropriate or personal and outside permissible school boundaries the employee has the responsibility to stop the inappropriate communication, report the communication to his or her supervisor and take prompt action to re-direct the student’s communication.

WARNING: The taking, disseminating, transferring or sharing of obscene, pornographic, lewd, or otherwise illegal images or photographs, whether by electronic data transfer or otherwise (commonly called texting, sexting, e-mailing, and other modes of electronic communication) may constitute a CRIME under state and/or federal law. Any person taking, disseminating, transferring, or sharing obscene, pornographic, lewd or otherwise illegal images or photographs will be reported to law enforcement and/or other appropriate state or federal agencies, which may result in arrest, criminal prosecution, and inclusion on sexual offender registries.

Adopted this 5th day of October, 2009
Amended on March 12, 2012