General Information

Computer resources and the Internet are provided for students to conduct research and communicate with others. Their use is limited to class assignments, and they are not to be used for non-school related activities. Independent access to computer resources is provided to students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner. Permission is required from a staff member. Access is a privilege, not a right. Access implies responsibility.

Computer storage areas may be treated like school lockers. Network administrators may review files and communications to maintain system integrity and ensure that students are using the system responsibly. Users should not expect that files stored on district servers or on individual disks will always be private.

As much as possible, access to district computer resources will be designed in ways which point students to those resources which have been reviewed and evaluated prior to use. Computer use will be monitored, but students are responsible for following the district's guidelines for appropriate use and bearing the consequences for misuse.

Inappropriate Use

General

• Accessing, displaying, printing or sending pornographic or offensive materials, whether written or graphic
• Accessing, displaying, printing or sending information inflammatory or derogatory toward any race, religion, culture or ethnic group
• Misusing, abusing, tampering with or vandalizing computer hardware
• Tampering with or copying school-owned software; loading personal software onto school-owned computers
• Tampering with or damaging computer networks, systems or security measures
• Intentionally wasting limited resources, i.e. unnecessary printing
• Trespassing in others' folders, work or files
• Using others' accounts or passwords
• Employing the network for commercial purposes
• Using resources for non-school related activities without permission

Communication

• Using obscene or abusive language
• Harassing, insulting or attacking others
• Revealing the personal addresses or telephone numbers of yourself or others
• Sending anonymous messages
• Sending messages inappropriate for public viewing; e-mail is not private and may be viewed by others

Illegal Activities

• Downloading copywrited material for other than personal use
• Transmitting material in violation of any U.S. or State regulation
• Posting material authored or created by another without his/her concent
• Gaining unauthorized access to resources or entities

Consequences of Inappropriate Use

The following consequences will result from inappropriate use of computer resources or the Internet:

• Violations will result in a loss of computer privileges
• Violators will be referred to their Dean for appropriate disciplinary action.
• Students will be responsible for full restitution for any physical damage/vandalism to equipment or for any software.
• When necessary, the appropriate law enforcement agency will be notified.

Acceptable Use Policy