Guidelines for Students

Students are expected to adhere to the following guidelines:

“Netiquette” for Students

1. Cameras: Cameras should be on and transmitting for the duration of your class, unless otherwise indicated by your teacher. Students should be visibly in frame for the entire class so that teachers can be as attuned to students as possible.  If a student struggles for whatever reason with having the camera on, we can work out helpful solutions (turning on a static background picture, having their own picture/avatar visible instead of a live feed, etc.).

2. Appearance: Students should be mindful of their clothes and appearance. Studies show that getting dressed for class sends a powerful signal to the brain that it is time to get to work.

3. Punctuality: Students must arrive punctually, logging onto their class’s Zoom session by the time the class is set to begin. Students may find it helpful to start logging on at least 5 minutes before the start of your class.

4. Focus: Students need to focus on the work at hand. Playing video games, surfing the web, or messaging with friends during class are unnecessary distractions. These activities also demonstrate a lack of respect for the class (both towards teachers and peers).

5. Recording: Students may not record Zoom classes or breakout rooms without the express permission of their teacher.

6. Light: Position yourself towards a light source that illuminates your face, if possible. Do your best not to sit with your camera facing a window, as you will be barely visible.

7. Microphone: Mute your microphone when you are not speaking or actively participating in the class discussion.

In addition to the above Netiquette guidelines, students should bear in mind that online schooling is still school. Students are still expected to actively participate in any virtual class meetings assigned by teachers. Students are also still expected to check their Mid-Pen email and Google Calendar daily for communication from teachers regarding Zoom classes. Finally, students and families are still responsible for behaving and learning in accordance with Mid-Pen’s “Student & Parent Handbook.”

Please remember that it is against school policy to share your teachers’ Zoom links with anyone outside of your class. The ongoing issues with “Zoom bombing” make it difficult to teach and create an unsafe, anxiety-inducing environment. If your teacher has password-protected their class, do not share the password and/or link. Violations of this policy may result in consequences for those involved.

• Take care of your body. Eat healthy, well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep, maintain your regular sleep schedule, prioritize being in fresh air.
• Maintain a schedule. Create a meaningful morning routine. Eat breakfast, get dressed, give yourself time before class to be fully present. Make time for a lunch break.
• Take breaks. Look away from your screen at least once every 20 minutes. Make time to unwind when not in school. Try not to sit overly still for extended periods of time. Practice mindfulness. Try to do activities you usually enjoy.
• Designate a work space. Create a small study area, with a desk and upright chair. Lighting is key to avoid eye strain and a tidy area will help keep your mind clear.
• Connect with others. Share your concerns and how you are feeling with a friend or family member. Maintain healthy relationships, and build a strong support system.
•  Stay informed. When you feel that you are missing information, you may become more stressed or nervous. Watch, listen to, or read the news for updates from officials. Be aware that there may be rumors during a crisis, especially on social media. Always check your sources and turn to reliable sources of information like your local government authorities.
• Avoid too much exposure to news. Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories. Try to do enjoyable activities and return to normal life as much as possible and check for updates between breaks.