Guide by GRADE
Grade 11
Our Technology Vision Overview
Junior year is pivotal with all of the academic demands, college focus in full view, and social complexities that continue to arise. Older teens are using technology for virtually every aspect of their lives: schoolwork, social networking, career exploration, creativity, and entertainment.
At this age, the relationship between parents and teens around technology should be one of partnership and coaching, not surveillance. The goal is to help juniors develop the habits, judgment, and self-awareness they need to continue to develop. Teens who learn to self-regulate, maintain balance, and curate their digital presences thoughtfully are better prepared for independence. These last years of high school are the final opportunity to practice healthy technology habits with a safety net still in place. Seven Hills faculty and staff continue to model positive technology behaviors and guide teens towards responsible use. Every family is unique, and we recognize that you know your child best. These guidelines are offered as research-based recommendations to help you make informed decisions that work for your family.
AT SCHOOL
What Students Do:
- Develop advanced digital literacy and research skills.
- Take notes, annotate texts, and collect data.
- Create multimedia projects using various tools such as iMovie, Canva, and Google Suite.
- Work independently on long-form academic projects.
- Track assignments and organize work through Canvas.
- Communicate via their school email account.
School Policies:
- Students are expected to self-regulate during class and independent work time.
- Personal devices (phones, smartwatches) are collected at the beginning of the day and returned at the end of each day.
- iPad goes home nightly — for school use only.
- Passwords should only be shared with parents and the Technology Department.
- With teacher permission, students in grades 11-12 are able to bring a personal laptop to school for schoolwork.
AT HOME
Best Practices:
- Shift from setting rules to creating agreements together.
- Stay curious and ask what they’re learning, creating, or engaging with online.
- Establish mutual expectations around privacy and responsibility.
- Be transparent — let your child know devices may be spot-checked for safety.
- Encourage balance with sports, creative pursuits, and in-person connection.
Tech-Free Zones:
- Bedrooms (charge in common areas)
- Dinner time, car rides, playgrounds, and grocery stores
- One hour before bedtime
