8legs: New york city public schools

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NYC schools track bathroom time with digital hall passes

NYC public schools began using SmartPass, a digital hall pass that logs when students leave class and where they go.
Supporters say SmartPass improves safety, reduces disruptions, and gives staff better visibility during emergencies.
Critics warn the system could become a model for invasive surveillance and long-term data collection.
Advocates argue the tool helps track movement and prevent misuse of passes.
Some students report feeling rushed or surveilled by the digital system.
The city has spent hundreds of thousands on SmartPass contracts amid budget pressures.
Privacy advocates warn data could be used beyond bathrooms and expand over time.
The debate centers on finding a balance between safety and student privacy.
SmartPass can restrict when passes are allowed and alert staff to potential screen-time conflicts.
The rollout highlights broader questions about data privacy in schools and future monitoring.

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