Gaggle is a safety management tool that helps support student safety and well-being on school-provided devices and platforms.

Gaggle uses a combination of artificial intelligence and trained safety experts to review students’ use of online tools on school-provided devices and platforms. Gaggle monitors the content students create with their school-issued accounts to ensure their welfare and identify those needing help. Gaggle swiftly flags any potentially concerning behavior or content; this includes signs of self-harm, depression, substance abuse, cyberbullying, or other harmful situations.

When it comes to school safety, students, teachers, administrators, and parents must work together as part of a comprehensive district-wide security plan. This added layer of safety aligns with the Columbus Board of Education's Policy Student Education Technology Acceptable Use and Safety, Policy 7540.03 and AG 7540.03, the District’s Guide to Student Success Acceptable Use Form, and Chromebook Agreement.

Yes. Gaggle only monitors accounts for students in grades 6-12. Gaggle does not monitor elementary student, teacher or staff accounts.

Anytime a student is logged into their CCS school-provided device or platforms, the district is responsible for what occurs in that digital environment, regardless of the location it is being accessed. Therefore all content from a student's district-issued device and district platform (email, Google Drive, Canvas, etc.) will be reviewed to ensure students are meeting the CCS Acceptable Use Policy.

Data collected by Gaggle focuses on school-provided devices and platforms and does not collect sensitive information. No data is shared with third parties and any personal identifiable information collected is available only to the designated school district personnel.  Information is only gathered to identify struggling students proactively, offer support, and maintain a secure school environment.

No, Columbus City Schools owns the devices and platforms.