Protecting Privacy and Ensuring Security at DISD
At DeSoto Independent School District, we place the highest importance on the privacy, safety, and security of our dedicated staff and students, especially in their online interactions. Keeping our children safe in the digital realm also involves safeguarding their personal data. DISD has implemented rigorous processes to ensure that the apps and software utilized in our classrooms are not only suitable for instructional purposes but also compliant with the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). We have stringent measures in place to protect personally identifiable information.
Data Privacy Resources
We understand the significance of privacy and data protection, and we want to empower our community with resources to stay informed and vigilant. Here are some key resources:
- Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA): FERPA is a federal law that protects the privacy of student educational records. It grants parents certain rights regarding their children's education records, including access, control, and consent.
- Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA): CIPA is a federal law that requires schools and libraries to implement internet safety policies. It aims to shield minors from harmful online content, including obscenity and child exploitation.
- Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule (COPPA): COPPA is a federal regulation that safeguards the online privacy of children under 13. It imposes restrictions on how websites and online services can collect, use, and disclose personal information from children.
- Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA): PPRA is a federal law that ensures parents' involvement in their children's education and protects students' privacy by regulating surveys and data collection in schools, especially those related to sensitive topics like religion or politics.
- Texas Senate Bill 820: Cybersecurity Policy: This Texas state bill outlines requirements for enhancing cybersecurity in educational institutions. It sets standards for protecting student and staff data from cyber threats and breaches.
- Texas Senate Bill 179: David’s Law (Cyberbullying): David’s Law, also known as Texas Senate Bill 179, addresses cyberbullying in Texas schools. It establishes mechanisms for reporting, investigating, and preventing online harassment of students.
- Texas House Bill 3746: Communication: This Texas state bill focuses on improving communication within educational institutions. It may pertain to guidelines for parent-teacher communication or school-community engagement.
- Texas House Bill 3834: Cybersecurity Training: Texas House Bill 3834 mandates cybersecurity training for school personnel. It ensures that educators and staff are prepared to identify and respond to cybersecurity threats, thereby protecting sensitive information.
- HIPAA In Texas Schools: HIPAA, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, applies to healthcare providers and organizations. In Texas schools, it relates to the protection of students' medical and health information, ensuring their privacy and data security in educational settings. For information on HIPAA in Texas schools, you can refer to the Texas Department of State Health Services.
DISD App Review Process
To maintain a safe and secure learning environment, we evaluate commonly used web applications submitted by our dedicated teachers biannually. We employ the DISD Privacy, Security, and Internet Safety Rubric to assess these applications. The list of approved apps, spanning from K-12 to those specifically suitable for grades 9 - 12, is readily available on the DISD website.
If you have questions regarding privacy, safety, or security as it pertains to web tools, please feel free to contact DISD Technology at 972-274-8040.
DISD Approved Apps and Software
We are dedicated to making the process of accessing approved apps and software more convenient for our community. To streamline this access, we are actively vetting both new and existing apps. We will keep this list updated on a regular basis to ensure it remains accurate.