Digital Citizenship and Technology Use at Capitol Hill School

At Capitol Hill School, we believe that digital citizenship is a cornerstone of 21st-century learning. In an increasingly connected world, it is essential that our students develop the skills, habits, and attitudes to navigate digital spaces safely, responsibly, and respectfully. Guided by our Digital Citizenship Plan and Admirable Use of Technology Policy, we strive to equip students with the tools they need to thrive both online and offline.

View our Digital Citizenship Plan | 2025-2026 and Admirable Use of Technology Policy | 2025-26

Why Digital Citizenship Matters

Digital citizenship encompasses the knowledge and behaviours necessary to use technology effectively and ethically. For elementary-aged students, these foundational skills help them to:

• Protect their personal information and understand online privacy.
• Engage respectfully with others in digital spaces.
• Make thoughtful decisions about when and how to use technology.
• Evaluate credible sources and recognize misinformation.
• Maintain a healthy balance between screen time and overall well-being.

Technology Use at Capitol Hill School

Educational technology plays a vital role in enhancing learning and fostering collaboration. Our students use technology to:

• Find and critically analyse information.
• Share their ideas and understandings with others.
• Learn collaboratively from peers and educators.
• Construct personal knowledge and meaning through inquiry.
• Collaborate effectively during projects and investigations.

To ensure a safe and focused digital learning environment, certain behaviours are not permitted, including:

• Playing games or visiting websites that are not approved by teachers (e.g., gaming, violent, or adult-only sites).
• Using chat sites that are not directed or monitored by a teacher.
• Downloading unauthorized software or restricted files.
• Sharing personal information about oneself or others without teacher consent.
• Damaging digital equipment or the school network intentionally.
• Using cell phones during instructional hours without teacher approval.

Respectful Digital Communication

Students are expected to use technology to communicate with others in a kind and respectful manner. This includes:

• Practicing good manners and respectful interactions in all online communication.
• Respecting the privacy and intellectual property of others.

To uphold a positive and respectful online community, the following behaviours are prohibited:

• Using inappropriate or obscene language when communicating online.
• Harassing, insulting, threatening, or attacking others in digital spaces.
• Sending or displaying offensive messages or images.
• Taking photos without teacher supervision and approval.
• Posting photos of others online without their explicit permission.
• Accessing or modifying someone else’s files, work, or folders without their consent.
• Destroying or tampering with the work of others.

How Parents Can Support Digital Citizenship

Parents and guardians play an integral role in developing their child’s digital citizenship skills. Here are ways to support these efforts at home:

• Model Positive Behaviour: Show your child how to navigate digital spaces responsibly and respectfully.
• Set Boundaries Together: Collaborate with your child to establish guidelines for screen time, device use, and online activities that align with your family values.
• Discuss Online Safety: Teach your child to protect personal information, recognize secure websites, and identify reliable sources of information.
• Engage in Conversations: Foster open discussions about your child’s online experiences, including how to handle challenges like cyberbullying or inappropriate content.
• Access Resources: Use tools like MediaSmarts' digital literacy resources to reinforce learning at home.

A Reminder About Mobile Devices

To support focused learning and minimize distractions, CHS adheres to the Calgary Board of Education’s Student Personal Mobile Devices Policy. Personal mobile devices are not permitted for use during the school day. Devices brought to school must remain out of sight, either powered off or set to silent mode, and stored in backpacks, lockers, or areas designated by teachers. Whenever possible, students are encouraged to leave their devices at home.

At Capitol Hill School, we are dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive digital environment. By working together—teachers, students, and parents—we can help our children become confident, ethical digital citizens ready to embrace the opportunities and challenges of a connected world. Thank you for partnering with us in this important journey.