New Rules and Policies re Computers at SJVTS

Dear Seminarians,

By now, most, if not all, of you may have already heard or read the new rules and policies re use of computers in the Seminary. In case you haven't, they are summarized here for your information and guidance. Having reviewed our present practice and having inquired from other seminaries re their own policies in the use of computers, we, your formators have decided on the following : starting this SY 2009-2010,

a) all computers, laptop or desk, personal or communal, are to be placed and used only in a common room in every building. Hence, use of computers in the individual rooms is no longer allowed.

b) no internet connection is allowed in the common room either from regular connection or wireless (WIFI, SMARTBRO, etc.). Internet access can only be had in the library or outside when you go out.

c) Laptops are discouraged in the Seminary. Aside from the fact that it is still expensive for seminarians, in general, it does highlight inequality among seminarians and can even become a status symbol. However, those who have them already, may still bring them to the seminary subject to the new rules.

d) At the start of the School Year (as soon as you arrive), please declare to your building moderators if you brought a laptop with you.

e) the other existing policies (e.g., re viewing of films, computer games, etc.) still hold true.

Rest assured that if we have made the rules stricter, it is never simply for the sake of restriction; it is to keep you from being distracted even more, given that cellphones (which are allowed in the Seminary) are already posing some distraction.

Thank you very much for your cooperation. Enjoy the rest of summer break and see you soon!

Father Rector