7540.03 - INTERNET USE BY STUDENTS AND STAFF

DeWitt Public Schools

Bylaws & Policies

7540.03 - INTERNET USE BY STUDENTS AND STAFF

The purpose of this policy is to facilitate network (electronic mail and electronic bulletin board) and internet access (all referred to as "Network"), for educational purposes for the staff and students where appropriate. As such, this access should (1) assist in the collaboration and exchange of information, (2) facilitate personal growth in the use of technology, and (3) enhance information gathering and communication skills. For the purpose of this policy, "user" includes both staff and students.

	A.	All District computers, servers and any information, student data, programs, or software provided by the District are the property of the District and are to be used for educational or communication purposes.
	B.	The use of the networks is a privilege. The District may review activities and use of computers and internet at any time. Using the computer or internet in a manner not authorized may result in disciplinary action or removal of access. The staff member is entitled to a review meeting and due process. Misuse of the networks includes, but is not limited to intentionally:

		1.	altering of system software
		2.	placing or distributing of unlawful or unauthorized information
		3.	installing viruses or harmful programs on or through the computer system either in public or private files or messages
		4.	misrepresenting other users on the network
		5.	disrupting operation of the networks through abuse of equipment or software
		6.	malicious use of the networks through hate mail, harassment, profanity, vulgar statements, or discriminatory remarks
		7.	extensive use for non-curriculum related communication
		8.	illegal installation of copyrighted software
		9.	unauthorized copy or use of licensed copyrighted software
		10.	allowing anyone to use an account other than the account holder
		11.	intentionally seeking information on, obtaining copies of or modifying files, other data, or passwords belonging to other users

	C.	The District retains the right to access and review all electronic mail, computer files, data bases, and any other electronic transmissions contained in or used in conjunction with the District’s system. Staff members should have no expectation that any information contained on such systems is confidential or private.
	D.	A staff member will not use his/her access to intentionally access or remove any material that is unlawful, obscene, pornographic, abusive, or objectionable; doing so will result in disciplinary action. If the staff member is not certain whether material falls outside of these parameters, approval should be sought from their immediate supervisor prior to accessing or transmitting such material.
	E.	All information services and features contained on the networks are intended for the educational use of its registered users and may not be used for commercial purposes. Staff members will not send or forward chain mail or unsolicited advertising.
	F.	The use of networks are resources for (in order of priority):

		1.	support of the academic program
		2.	telecommunications
		3.	general information
		4.	school communications
		5.	reasonable personal or association communication to the extent that such use does not violate any express prohibitions of this agreement and does not interfere with assigned duties and responsibilities

	G.	The District and/or internet networks does not warrant that the functions of the system will meet any specific requirements that the user may have or that it will be error free or uninterrupted; nor shall it be liable for any direct or indirect, incidental or consequential damages (including lost data, information, or time) sustained or incurred in connection with the use, operation, or inability to use the system.
	H.	The staff member will diligently delete old mail messages on a weekly basis from the personal mail directory to avoid excessive use of the electronic mail disk space.
	I.	The District and/or internet networks will periodically review and make determinations on whether specific uses of the networks are consistent with the acceptable use policies. The District and network reserves the right to log internet use and to monitor electronic mail space utilization by users.
	J.	The staff member may not transfer file, shareware, or software from information services and electronic bulletin boards without the permission of the DeWitt Technology Director. The staff member will be liable to pay for the cost or fee of any file, shareware, or software intentionally transferred without such permission.
	K.	Student supervision of networks use is expected to the extent possible. Staff members however, will be released from liability for inappropriate acts committed by a student with regard to the network or internet without their knowledge.
	L.	The District will provide each staff member with a password for accessing the internet and e-mail. The staff member will protect the password and provide for its security.

"For Student" computers will utilize a system or method that is designed to prevent a minor from viewing obscene matter or sexually explicit matter that is harmful to minors. The District may use passwords and or filters.

The District reserves the right to log computer use and to monitor fileserver space utilization by users. The District reserves the right to remove a user account on the Network to prevent further unauthorized activity.

The user is responsible for the proper use of the equipment and will be held accountable for any damage to or replacement of equipment caused by abusive use.

M.C.L.A. 397.606 (6)

Adopted 6/11/01