7540.02 - ACCEPTABLE USE OF COMPUTERS, COMPUTER NETWORKS, AND THE INTERNET

School District of Greenfield

Bylaws & Policies

7540.02 - ACCEPTABLE USE OF COMPUTERS, COMPUTER NETWORKS, AND THE INTERNET

The School District of Greenfield uses technology to support its mission to educate all students to a high level of academic performance and foster positive development of student health, attitudes and behaviors, so each student can make a positive contribution to our democratic society. The District’s computers, computer networks, and the Internet provide unequaled opportunities to use a varied set of resources to broaden the scope of research and to improve communication, problem-solving, and employment skills.

In order to match computers, computer networks and Internet resources to the District’s curriculum, staff review and evaluate resources and monitor students. The District uses a technology protection measure that blocks or filters access to Internet sites that are not in accordance with District policy. However, it is impossible to control all materials and a user may discover unsuitable information. The District believes the valuable information available on the Internet far outweighs the possibility that a user may obtain objectionable material. The technology protection measure may be disabled by an authorized staff member for bona fide research by an adult.

GUIDELINES

The smooth operation of the District computers, computer networks, and the Internet relies upon the proper conduct of users. Access to these resources is provided to students and staff after they sign a User Agreement. Permission from a parent or guardian is required for minors. Access is a privilege, not a right; access entails responsibility.

The District is not responsible for restricting or monitoring the communications of individuals utilizing networks or the Internet. However, District staff may review files and communications to ensure users are using the system responsibly. Users should not expect files or communications to be private.

The School District of Greenfield makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the service it is providing. School District of Greenfield is not responsible for any damages suffered by the user, including loss of data, or for the accuracy of information obtained through its network. Proprietary rights to any work product developed using District technology are assigned to the District.

Users are expected to:

	A.	Use the District computers, computer network, and the Internet (including electronic mail, chat rooms, and other forms of direct electronic communications) for school related purposes.
	B.	Sign onto the network with their own user-id.
	C.	Access appropriate Internet sites.
	D.	Keep their password confidential and change it when necessary.
	E.	Notify Technology Support Staff if they suspect a security problem.

Users are NOT permitted to:

	A.	Physically damage computers or network hardware.
	B.	Use a computer or the network for purposes other than those which appear on the menu window, or to access DOS without explicit permission of District staff.
	C.	Load any programs or files onto a computer or network without explicit permission of Technology Support Staff. Use any programs or files which have been improperly loaded.
	D.	Access or modify any computer or network set-up, configuration or system information/files.
	E.	Access any system administrator or supervisory functions or files. Access another user’s files.
	F.	Use or change the password or access rights belonging to another user or the network.
	G.	Engage in "hacking" or attempts to otherwise compromise system security.
	H.	Prevent District staff from viewing the user’s computer screen.
	I.	Intentionally spread computer viruses.
	J.	Use the computer or network in any way that would disrupt its use by others.
	K.	Use the network or Internet for commercial purposes.
	L.	Access material that is obscene, pornographic, child pornography, "harmful to minors", or otherwise inappropriate for educational uses.
	M.	Disclose personal information on the Internet, such as name, school, address, or telephone number for oneself, family, friends, or District staff.
	N.	Engage in illegal activities or activities that violate District policies, such as policies on copyright and student conduct.
	O.	Attempt to do any of the above or instruct others on the above.

SANCTIONS

Violations will result in any or all of the following:

	A.	Loss of access.
	B.	Suspension.
	C.	Expulsion.
	D.	Payment of costs which the District incurs to restore computers or networks to their prior condition and to verify their proper operation.
	E.	Disciplinary action in keeping with existing practices regarding inappropriate language or behavior.
	F.	Referral to the Greenfield Police Department or other law enforcement agencies.

Adopted 10/22/01