In a recent meeting of the Lake Oswego School District 7J Board, a significant discussion emerged regarding the management of technology devices used by students. The board addressed concerns raised by teachers about their ability to monitor students during online tests. Teachers expressed the need for better oversight to prevent students from accessing unauthorized resources, such as opening additional tabs on their personal devices.

The conversation highlighted the challenges posed by the use of non-district-owned devices. Board members noted that software purchased for educational purposes is typically not compatible with personal devices, complicating efforts to ensure academic integrity during assessments. This situation raises concerns about the effectiveness of online testing and the potential for academic dishonesty.

To address these issues, the board is considering a recommendation to shift to a "stay at school" model for middle school devices. This change would mean that students would not take their devices home, allowing teachers to maintain better control and oversight during school hours. The board emphasized the importance of balancing technology access with the need to protect district resources and ensure positive educational outcomes.

The discussion reflects a broader commitment to 21st-century learning while navigating the complexities of technology use in education. As the board continues to explore solutions, the focus remains on fostering a responsible and effective learning environment for all students.