[Erate] FCC finally releases new CIPA order!

[Carson, Sabrina]

I have just reviewed the order, and I think it is a very positive step. As expected, the FCC has refused to mandate HOW schools should educate students on responsible use of technology (social networking, chat rooms, cyberbullying, etc) but simply mandates that they must address it. Also, this new mandate is effective July 1 2012. While so many of you have already made the appropriate changes to your policies, this is a great relief and this deadline should be easily met by most of the remaining districts.

Also of note, the FCC clarified that if an applicant already has an existing policy in place, there is no requirement to hold a new public meeting in order to make changes to it (unless required by state or local policy). There had been some conflicting guidance on this in the past, and it's now official.

They also provide several helpful and timely clarifications on CIPA compliance. Most notably, they clarify that while many social networking sites (such as Facebook or MySpace) could potentially contain information considered harmful to minors, that the sites themselves are not considered harmful and that applicants should maintain local control of their willingness to allow users to access these online resources. My professional opinion is that an applicant should consider holding a public meeting (even if not required as stated above) if there is significant question or concern regarding the use of these types of sites in your community.

Please take some time to review the order as I feel that it contains a lot of very helpful information. It's not TOO long, I promise!! Have a great day!! http://transition.fcc.gov/Daily_Releases/Daily_Business/2011/db0811/FCC-11-125A1.pdf

Sabrina Carson
e-Rate Coordinator
Willamette Education Service District
2611 Pringle Rd SE
Salem, OR 97302
P: 503.540.4495
F: 503.540.2962

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