I understand what the board did and I support the fact they CAN do it. However their implementation was faulty.
Keep in mind all iPhone users (who set their phone up) as well as many MacBook users can track their devices if stolen. My Macbook, if I mark it stolen on a particular internet site, will take a picture of whomever is using it next time it's operated and email that and the IP address to me.
So since it's school property they are loaning, their actions are okay BUT they failed to advise students that IF the laptop was reported stolen (or lost) there were automatic consequences.
What will come out, sadly, is that some of those instances were not the result of reported lost or stolen machines. Then the admins should be taken out back and shot. That's way over the creepy line.
This post is disjointed because I am tired. Sorry if it confuses.