Our personal devices are an extension of our private lives, and forcing students to install applications onto them without necessary legal backing undermines student autonomy and privacy. Recently, Algonquin High School has mandated all students to install the Doorman app, developed by a new company, onto their personal phones. This decision comes without the support of any federal or state legislation, placing the school’s demand in a questionable light.

There have been prior instances where the school mishandled student data. Cases involving Lifetouch and PowerSchool have already eroded our trust, as sensitive information was leaked. This history of data breaches subjects current students to unwarranted risk, especially when new technologies such as the Doorman app are introduced without clear data protection measures or third-party verification.

Why should students and their families bear the risk of potential data breaches on personally owned devices? The truth is they shouldn't. Implementing such apps should come with stringent vetting procedures, assurances of privacy, and, crucially, consent. Without these steps, we are left vulnerable, and our right to privacy is compromised.

We propose that Algonquin High School ceases this mandatory app installation. Instead, let's engage in an open dialogue to explore alternative solutions that balance safety, necessity, and privacy. Schools can implement similar functionalities with existing school-owned technology where the risks and liabilities are clearly understood and managed.

This petition aims to protect student privacy, ensure data is safeguarded, and uphold the rights to control what is installed on personal devices. Join us in demanding that Algonquin High School respects these values and reconsiders its stance on mandatory app installations. Please sign this petition to stand with the students of Algonquin and their families.