Skip to main content

Use of Unmanned Aircraft (Drones) Policy 4334/5035/7345

Purpose

The Eastern North Carolina School for the Deaf (ENCSD) is committed to maintaining a safe, secure, and respectful educational and residential environment.  This policy governs the use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, on or over ENCSD property and at school-sponsored activities in order to protect student safety, privacy, and school operations.

As a residential school, ENCSD recognizes that drone use presents unique considerations related to supervision, safety, accessibility, and privacy across both instructional and residential settings.

I. Definitions

For the purposes of this policy, the following definitions apply:

  • Unmanned Aircraft (Drone): An aircraft operated without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the aircraft, including associated systems, cameras, and equipment.
  • Operator: Any individual who controls or directs the operation of a drone.
  • School Property: All buildings, grounds, airspace above ENCSD property, school vehicles, and residential facilities owned, leased, or operated by ENCSD.

II. General Prohibition

The use, operation, or launching of drones on or over ENCSD property, within residential facilities, or at school-sponsored events is prohibited unless prior written authorization is granted by the Superintendent or designee.

 

III. Authorized Use

  1. Instructional or Programmatic Use
    1. Drones may be authorized for instructional, educational, safety, maintenance, or school-approved program purposes.
    2. All authorized use must align with curriculum goals, safety standards, and accessibility requirements.
  2. Operational and Safety Use
    1. ENCSD may authorized drone use for campus inspection, emergency response planning, or facility regulations.
    2. Operators must follow all ENCSD safety protocols and supervision requirements

IV. Prohibited Use

The following uses are strictly prohibited:

  • Personal or recreational drone use by students, employees, or visitors
  • Use that interferes with instructional activities or residential supervision
  • Use that captures images, video, or audio of students, staff, or visitors without authorization
  • Use the creates a safety risk, disruption, or invasion of privacy

V. Disciplinary Consequences

Students who violate this policy shall be subject to disciplinary action consistent with ENCSD policies, due process requirements, and applicable law.  Consequences may include suspension, reassignment, or expulsion, as permitted by law.

VI. Privacy and Data Protection

  1. Student and Staff Privacy
    1. Drone use shall not violate privacy rights or confidentiality protections
    2. Recording or surveillance of residential facilities, restrooms, locker rooms, or private spaces is strictly prohibited.
  2. Data Management
    1. Any images, video, or data collected through authorized drone use shall be handled in accordance with applicable privacy, records retention, and data security requirements.

VII. Residential Program Considerations

Given ENCSD’s residential environment:

  • Drone operations shall not occur near student housing unless expressly authorized for safety or operational purposes
  • Additional safeguards may be implemented to protect student privacy and supervision.

VIII. Enforcement and Consequences

Violations of this policy may result in:

  • Confiscation of equipment, as permitted by law
  • Disciplinary action for students in accordance with ENCSD policies
  • Disciplinary action for employees in accordance with applicable employment policies
  • Involvement of law enforcement when required

XI. Reporting

Any unauthorized drone activity or safety concern shall be reported immediately to school administration or campus security.

X. Implementation and Training

ENCSD shall provide guidance and training to administrators, instructional staff, residential staff, and support personnel regarding this policy, with emphasis on safety, privacy, accessibility, and appropriate authorization procedures.

Legal References

  • Federal Aviation Regulations, 14 C.F.R. Part 107
  • Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), 20 U.S.C. § 1232g
  • North Carolina General Statutes § 115C
  • North Carolina State Board of Education Policies
  • North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) Guidance
  • Applicable Office of State Human Resources (OSHR) Policies
  • Applicable North Carolina Department of Administration (DOA) Policies
  • Applicable Office of State Budget and Management (OSBM) Policies
Policy