Acceptable Use

Please read this carefully including the authorization for access at the end. This is the formal agreement referenced in Board Policy 6:235.

 

For Students

Computer and Internet access is available to students in District 39 schools. The Internet is a network of networks connecting millions of computer users all over the world. The Internet enables worldwide connection to, data bases, software, and other information sources, such as libraries and museums. District 39 provides Internet access to promote educational excellence in member schools by facilitating resource sharing, innovation, and communication.

 

The smooth operation of the network relies upon the proper conduct of the end users who must adhere to strict guidelines. These guidelines are provided here so that you are aware of the responsibilities you are about to acquire. If a District 39 user violates any of these provisions, his or her account will be terminated and future access can be denied.

 

Risk

It is impossible to control all materials on the Internet. Sites accessible via the Internet may contain material that is illegal, defamatory, obscene, inaccurate or controversial. With global access to computers and people, there is a risk that students may access material that may not be considered to be of educational value in the context of the school setting.

 

Users' responsibilities

Internet users, like traditional library users, are responsible for their actions in accessing available resources.


INTERNET TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Authorized Use

The use of your account must be in support of education and research.

 

Privilege

Use of a personal District 39 Internet account is a privilege, not a right.

 

Voluntary

Use of a personal District 39 Internet account is voluntary on the part of the student.


Network Etiquette

You are expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette. These include (but are not limited to) the following:

  1. Maintain the security of the network by keeping information, especially passwords and account numbers, private.
  2. Refrain from behavior or activity that damages or disrupts the performance of the network.
  3. Use the network for approved, legal activities which have educational relevance.
  4. Honor all rules of copyright and personal property.
  5. Avoid the knowing or inadvertent spread of computer viruses.
  6. Use only acceptable appropriate language. Avoid offensive or inflammatory speech.
  7. Use real name in all communications. Impersonation, anonymity, or pseudonyms are not permitted.
  8. Note that all electronic mail (email) is not guaranteed to be private. Individuals who operate the system will have access to all mail. Messages relating to or in furtherance of illegal activities will be reported to the authorities.

Inappropriate Use

Inappropriate use includes, but is not limited to, those uses that violate the law, that are specifically named as violations in this document, that violate the rules of network etiquette or that hamper the integrity or security of this or any networks connected to the Internet.

 

Violation of law

Transmission of any material in violation of any international, US or state law is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to: copyrighted material, threatening, harassing or obscene material, or material protected by trade secret. Any attempt to break the law while using a District 39 Internet account or while connected to the Internet through a District 39 IP (Internet Protocol) address may result in litigation against the offender by the proper authorities. If such an event should occur, District 39 will fully comply with the authorities to provide any information necessary for the litigation process.

 

Commercial Use

Use for commercial, income-generating or “for-profit” activities or product advertisement is prohibited.

 

Vandalism/Mischief

Vandalism and mischief are prohibited. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy data of another user, the Internet, or any networks that are connected to the Internet. This includes, but is not limited to, the deliberate creation and/or propagation of computer viruses. Sending unsolicited junk mail or chain letters, is prohibited. Any interference with the work of other users, with or without malicious intent, is construed as mischief and is strictly prohibited.

 

User ID Violations

Once a User ID is issued, the user is responsible for all actions taken while using that User ID. Sharing of a User ID with another person is prohibited.


Electronic Mail Violations

Forgery of electronic mail messages is prohibited. Reading, deleting, copying, or modifying the electronic mail of other users is prohibited.

 

File/Data Violations

Deletion, examination, copying, or modification of files and/or data belonging to other users is prohibited.

 

Consequences of Policy Violation

An attempt to violate the provisions of this policy may result in revocation of the users Internet access privileges and/or account.

 

Additional consequences

District and/or school disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion, and/or appropriate legal action may be taken.

 

Security

Security on any computer system is a high priority, especially when the system involves many users. If you feel you can identify a security problem on the Internet, you must notify your building principal. Do not demonstrate the problem to other users. Do not use another individual’s account at any time. Attempts to log on to the Internet as a system administrator will result in cancellation of user privileges. Any user identified as a security risk or having a history of problems with other computer systems may be denied access to Internet.

 

DISCLAIMER

District 39 makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the Internet services it is providing. District 39 will not be responsible for any damages suffered by users. This includes loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, mis- deliveries, or service interruptions caused by its own negligence or user errors or omissions. District 39 is not responsible for phone/credit card bills or any other charges incurred by users. Use of any information obtained via the Internet is at the user’s own risk for the user’s own purpose. District 39 specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through its Internet facilities.

 

This agreement remains in force until superseded by another document.

For Students

I understand and will voluntarily abide by the District 39 Acceptable Use of the District's Electronic Networks agreement. I understand that the District and/or its agents may access and monitor my use of the District’s Electronic Network, including the Internet, my email, and downloaded material, without prior notice to me. I further understand that should I commit any violation, my access privileges may be revoked, and school disciplinary action and/or legal action may be taken. In consideration for using the District’s Electronic Network, I hereby release the School District and its Board members, employees, and agents from any claims and damages arising from my use of, or inability to use the District’s Electronic Network.

 

For Parent(s)/Guardian(s) of Student

As the parent or guardian of this student, I have read the District 39 Acceptable Use of the District's Electronic Networks Agreement. I understand that the District’s Electronic Network is designed for educational purposes and that the District has taken precautions to eliminate controversial material. However, I recognize it is impossible for District 39 to restrict access to all controversial and inappropriate materials. I will hold harmless the District, its employees, agents, or Board members, for any harm caused by materials or software obtained via the District’s Electronic Network. Further, I accept full responsibility for supervision if and when my child’s use is not in a school setting. I have discussed the District 39 Electronic Network Use Agreement with my child. I hereby give District 39 permission to allow my child to access the District’s Electronic Network.