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Important Digital Communication Policy Changes

Important Digital Communication Policy Changes

Digital Communication Policy Changes

Deer Creek School District Community, 

We want to make you aware of a new state law, now in effect, that impacts how school employees communicate with students. Effective July 1, HB 3958 requires that all digital communication between school employees and students include the student’s parent or guardian unless conducted through a school approved platform for school-related purposes. 

As of July 8, 2024, Deer Creek’s district-approved platforms are: 

  • Canvas (Learning Management System) 

  • Google Education Suite (Gmail, Google Docs, Google Slides, etc.) 

  • School Messenger (Mass Notification System: One-way district emails, texts, push notifications and audio messages)

  • My Ride K-12 (One-way transportation texts, emails and push notifications)

These platforms are approved because they facilitate accessible communication with students and their parents/guardians, allow district oversight, and/or they are linked to an academic/school-related service as stipulated by law. 

What this Means for You: 

  • Inclusion in Communication: If a school employee needs to communicate with your child via a digital method not on the approved list above, you will be included in the communication. 

  • Platform Use: Communication related to academics or school activities will be conducted through the approved platforms or through a platform that parents/guardians can access. Your child’s sponsors or coaches will share with their program what platforms they will be using, if it is not listed above. Other platforms are currently under review and may become a district-approved option in the future.

  • Emergency Situations: In emergencies, school employees will make every effort to use an approved platform or include you in the communication. If direct communication with your child is necessary, you will be informed as soon as possible. 

We understand that these changes will require adjustment. We ask for your help in reminding your student(s) of the approved ways to communicate with school employees. Our team is committed to making this transition smooth and ensuring our practices enhance the relationship between school staff and families. 

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding. We look forward to welcoming our students back for another great year on August 14th!

Sincerely, 

Dr. Jason Perez
Superintendent