Team,

We are reaching out to provide clarification and guidelines around using Zoom on staff computers.  First, please know that we have restricted Zoom entirely on DSST student computers due to serious safety and security concerns.  You have probably read many stories about “Zoom-bombing” in the last several weeks.  The security concerns with Zoom and other similar video conferencing applications that do not live behind a firewall is why we have blocked Zoom access for students.  The risk of our students being exposed to inappropriate content or predators is something we are not willing to take.

That being said, we acknowledge that a complete block of Zoom on staff computers is burdensome and may create unintended challenges for you as you connect with individuals outside of DSST.  We recognize that Zoom has become more popular during the COVID pandemic and we would like ensure that you are able to communicate with communities outside of DSST while still maintaining the proper protocols and measures to keep our company and student data private and safe. 

Therefore, we have made a decision to allow the use of Zoom on staff computers which will enable staff to join meetings or events that are hosted on Zoom.  Please remember that Zoom and other video conferencing platforms that do not live behind a firewall serve as targets given that they essentially allow anyone with the link/passcode to join and potentially disrupt a meeting with disturbing and inappropriate content.  Our preference is that you use Microsoft Teams as often as you can.  In the event you need to use Zoom, please be mindful of the Zoom meetings you host or join.

We are also allowing staff to host Zoom meetings or webinars using their DSST computers for events that meet very specific requirements.  Most importantly, Zoom meetings should never involve students or student data.  Microsoft Teams is our primary video conferencing system - it is secure and has most of the features you will need to host meetings and events.  That said, we recognize that you may need to use Zoom for unique circumstances as the tool has the following features: synchronous translation, simultaneous screen-sharing and co-annotation, and the ability to record meetings and generate transcripts.  Given Zoom’s additional features, certain events might warrant the use of of the tool including:

• Meetings greater than 250 participants
• Virtual Orientations for new families allowing access to a dial-in number 
• A need for synchronous translation 
• Accessible recording and sharing need
• Existing Parent Communications/Advocacy events where dial in or simultaneous screen sharing is preferred 

The MAC Team is coordinating all Virtual Orientations/Parent Engagement events and will manage the two Zoom accounts permitted for these events.  Please reach out to Katie Glenn if you need to schedule a new or existing parent event that has the above requirements. The MAC Team is accountable for ensuring the settings of meetings are established to provide the best level of security and audience experience. If you have questions about how to make the most out of Teams meetings and Teams Live events, please work with your school-based technology lead. 

Thanks as always for your understanding and patience as we navigate this new world.

Shaun Bryant

Director of Information Technology