School says students must use cameras

On Nov. 9, Milton Area School District began requiring all students to use their cameras while attending class virtually. 

High School Co-Principal Mr. Andrew Rantz said the district leadership team decided to require the use of cameras.  

Mr. Rantz said requiring students to use their cameras will keep them focused. “Students remain engaged for the duration of all classes/lessons and are not missing critical instruction and educational opportunities,” he added. 

If students refuse to use their camera during an online class, it would be treated as a Level One classroom discipline infraction, said Mr. Rantz. According to the student handbook, some examples of a Level One classroom discipline infractions include skipping class, misuse of school technology and refusing to participate in class. Mr. Rantz said the punishment for these actions could be anywhere from a conference with the principal to an after school detention.  

Teachers are responsible for enforcing the camera policy, he added. While students are held accountable for their own learning, teachers should help to keep them engaged, Mr. Rantz said. 

According to Mr. Rantz, the school recognizes the technological disadvantages that sometimes come with using cameras. He added the school will look into any technological adjustments that need to be made in the future and if a student is experiencing issues, they are to contact the tech department.   

The leadership team has already seen success with students who keep their cameras on all the time, he said. Classroom data, failure data and attendance data will be used to measure improvement, he added. Mr. Rantz added that the school will continue to evaluate the new procedure as the year continues.  

High School Co-Principal Mr. Michael Bergey said that camera use provides students with a social and emotional connection to what they are learning.