Dear Columbus Public Schools Families,
Technology in our students’ lives keeps changing, and our policies need to keep pace. Smart glasses, such as Meta Ray-Bans and similar products, look much like ordinary eyewear, but they can quietly take photos, record audio and video, livestream, and connect to artificial-intelligence tools. Unlike a phone, they can do this without anyone noticing. That creates real risks for our students and staff. A classmate could be recorded in a hallway, a classroom, or a locker room or restroom without ever knowing. A test could be photographed and shared, or answered with outside help. Testing organizations like ACT already prohibit these devices for exactly these reasons. Every child deserves to come to school knowing they will not be recorded against their will.
To address this, the Board is considering Regulation 504.11R1, which builds on the electronic device rules already in place under Nebraska’s LB 140. Under the regulation, students would not wear or use smart glasses or similar wearable recording devices during the school day, and no one would be allowed to record in restrooms, locker rooms, or other private areas at any time. Students who need these devices for a documented disability or medical reason will continue to be supported through their IEP, 504 plan, or health plan. If your child currently wears smart glasses with prescription lenses, we will allow time to arrange regular glasses. Please contact me with any questions. Thank you for partnering with us to keep our schools safe, respectful, and focused on learning.
Sincerely,
Dr. Chip Kay, Superintendent
