Metropolitan School District of Decatur Township
Bylaws & Policies
 

7540 - COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY AND NETWORKS

The Board of School Trustees is committed to the effective use of technology to both enhance the quality of student learning and the efficiency of operations within the school system.

However, the use of the District’s network and technology resources by students is a privilege, not a right. As a prerequisite, students and their parents must sign and submit a Student Network and Internet Acceptable Use and Safety form annually. (See also, Policy 7540.03)

The Superintendent shall develop and implement a written District Technology Plan (CTP). Procedures for the proper acquisition of technology shall be set forth in the CTP. The CTP shall also provide guidance to staff and students about making safe, appropriate, and ethical use of the District’s network(s), as well as inform both staff and students about disciplinary actions that will be taken if Board technology and/or networks are abused in any way or used in an inappropriate, illegal, or unethical manner.

Further safeguards shall be established so that the Board's investment in both hardware and software achieves the benefits of technology and inhibits negative side effects. Accordingly, students shall be educated about appropriate online behavior including, but not limited to, using social media to interact with others online; interacting with other individuals in chat rooms or on blogs; and, recognizing what constitutes cyberbullying, understanding cyberbullying is a violation of District policy, and learning appropriate responses if they are victims of cyberbullying.

The Board authorizes the access and use of social media from the District’s network to increase awareness of District programs and activities, as well as to promote achievements of staff and students, provided such access and use is approved in advance by the Superintendent.

The Superintendent shall review the CTP and report any changes, amendments, or revisions to the Board annually.

Revised 10/11/11

© Neola 2011