File: IJNDB

ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY -- TECHNOLOGY

Overview

The Internet is an electronic communications network that provides vast, diverse and unique resources. Our goal in providing this service to teachers, staff and students, is to promote educational excellence in the Gardner School District by facilitating resource sharing, innovation and communication.

The Gardner Public Schools shall provide access for employees and students to the system/network, including access to external networks for appropriate educational purposes. Educational purposes shall be defined as classroom activities, career and professional development, and high quality self-discovery activities of an educational nature. The purpose of the system/network is to assist in preparing students for success in life and work by providing access to a wide range of information and the ability to communicate with others. The system/network will be used to increase communication (staff, parent, and student), enhance productivity, and assist staff in upgrading existing skills and acquiring new skills through a broader exchange of information. The system/network will also be used to provide information to the community, including parents, governmental agencies, and businesses.

Availability

The Superintendent or designee shall implement, monitor, and evaluate the district's system/network for instructional and administrative purposes.

Access to the system/network, including external networks, shall be made available to employees and students for instructional and administrative purposes and in accordance with administrative regulations and procedures.

Access to the system/network is a privilege, not a right. All users, parents and or legal guardians, shall be required to acknowledge receipt and understanding of all administrative regulations and procedures governing use of the system and shall agree in writing to comply with such regulations and procedures.

Noncompliance with applicable regulations and procedures may result in suspension or termination of user privileges and other disciplinary actions consistent with the policies of the Gardner Public Schools. Violations of law may result in criminal prosecution as well as disciplinary action by the Gardner Public Schools.

Acceptable Use

The Superintendent or designee shall develop and implement administrative regulations, procedures, and user agreements, consistent with the purposes and mission of the Gardner Public Schools as well as with law and policy governing copyright.

Monitored Use

Electronic mail transmissions, internet site usage and use of other electronic resources by students and employees shall not be considered confidential and may be monitored at any time by designated staff to ensure appropriate use for instructional and administrative purposes.

Liability

The Gardner Public Schools shall not be liable for users' inappropriate use of electronic resources, violations of copyright restrictions, users' mistakes or negligence, or costs incurred by users. The Gardner Public Schools shall not be responsible for ensuring the accuracy or usability of any information found on external networks.

[Adoption date: May 11, 1998]

[Revised: June 2002]