Electronic Device Covenant West Heights United Methodist Church takes its responsibility seriously to provide a safe environment as we nurture persons in their spiritual development as disciples of Jesus Christ. We also value our volunteers and employees who work with youth; they are in positions of trust as they nurture our young people in their Christian faith. Jesus said, "Whoever welcomes a child&ldots;welcomes me: (Matthew 18:5). God calls us to make our church a safe place, protecting youth from abuses and creating a community of faith where children and adults grow safe and strong. 1. If I am of driving age, I will never text while driving. I will pull over in a safe place or have someone else in my car answer any calls/texts while driving. 2. I will engage in appropriate use of technology when taking photos, texting, and emailing, posting, etc. My electronic device shall not be used in a way that threatens, humiliates, harasses, or intimidates other individuals, including peers, employees, and visitors, or violates any law. 3. I will not take pictures of myself or others that may be deemed indecent. 4. Out of respect for others, I will ask permission of a person(s) featured in a picture before I post the picture online. 5. I will limit my cell phone or any other hand held electronic devices during scheduled activities. 6. I will personally and solely be responsible for the security of electronic devices brought to church. The church shall not assume any responsibility for theft, loss, damage, or unauthorized use made with an electronic device. It is my responsibility to keep my cell phone or any other hand held electronic device secure. 7. This Covenant holds its roots in the same principles that allow a school to search a student's locker and bags. We feel that electronic devices including cell phones fall under this principle. By bringing a cell phone and other electronic devices to church or church sponsored events, the youth and parents consent to the search of the device when church volunteers or employees have a reasonable suspicion that the device contains questionable material. I understand my electronic device will not be searched immediately but will be confiscate and turn it over to the Youth Director. Before searching the device a parent must be present. The Senior Pastor will be notified and the ministry will consult with its attorney and report abuse as required by law. 8. I will not abuse the convenience and privilege of having a cell phone/hand held electronic devices with me. Parents' Consent and Release: We have reviewed the Electronic Device Covenant set forth above and agree that our child will abide by it. We understand that the ministry can't guarantee that all youth participating in church activities will abide by the covenant's terms. However, we realize that the ministry will seek to enforce the covenant's terms to the best of its ability. All youth without a signed Covenant will be asked not to bring any electronic device to church and will be asked not to use any electronic device while at any church function. By signing this covenant, we are giving our consent for the youth named below to participate in all West Heights UMC ministry activities. When we allow our child to participate in a Church Ministry activity we are granting our consent for our child to fully participate therein and for official photos to be taken of such activities with the possibility that they will be posted on church related electronic media unless otherwise directed by us in writing. We understand that this covenant will be valid until September 30, 20___, at which time a new covenant must be signed. Signature of Parent/Guardian :_____________________ Date_______ Printed Name: ______________________ Signature of Parent/Guardian :_____________________ Date_______ Printed Name: ______________________ Signature of Youth: _____________________________ Date_______ Printed Name: ______________________