I.     Computer/Internet Rules for Students
II.   Library Media Center Computer/Internet Use
III. Parent Guidelines for Internet Safety
IV.   Internet Safety Resources

Student Rules for Computer Use
Students are responsible for good behavior on computers at school.  Computer files, including e-mail, are not private.  The use of the school’s computers and computer networks, computer software, data files, Internet access, and intellectual property is a privilege and is intended for educational purposes only.  The privilege may be revoked or other disciplinary action taken for violation of any of the following rules. 

Students may NOT: 

1. Share computer account IDs and passwords, except when authorized.
2. Create, copy, receive, or use data, language or graphics which are obscene, abusive, harassing, or otherwise inappropriate at school.
3. Access, change or delete computer programs, data files or electronic mail belonging to others, without express permission.
4. Steal or destroy the school’s computer hardware or peripherals (printers, mouses, monitors, modems, cables, connectors, etc.)
5. Steal or destroy computer software or data files owned by the school or other persons.
6. Violate or attempt to violate the security of the computer/network systems.
7. Take unauthorized actions which deny access to, disrupt, or destroy the service of the computer/network systems.
8. Make unauthorized or unlawful installation of personal computer software on the school’s computers or the computer networks, including, but not limited to, games, virus programs, and applications software.  Student-provided software must be used only in accordance with the license agreement.
9. Use computers, computer networks, or computer peripherals (printers, mouses, monitors, modems, etc.) to commit a forgery or to create a forged instrument.
10. Use computers, computer networks, computer software, data files or intellectual property in any unauthorized way.

Student Rules and Guidelines - students, without risk of losing their privilege of Internet use, may not:

1. Access the Internet without teacher permission.
2. Transmit any material prohibited by any laws or regulations.
3. Violate copyright laws in the transmission, copying or printing of any material.
4. Access, transmit, copy, download or print inappropriate or obscene material.
5. Use the Internet to advertise products or use it for commercial activities, political campaigning or solicitation.
6. Play games, use e-mail, visit chat rooms or use the Internet for non-academic activities unless part of a class project and directed by a teacher.
7. Give out personal information such as name, address or phone number or the personal information of anyone else.

Students are expected to abide by the general rules of Internet manners (Netiquette).  Some of those, as outlined by the District, include, but are not limited to the following: 

1. Students must use appropriate language without the use of profanity or vulgarities.
2. Students may not participate in any activities that violate laws or the School Board’s Code of Student Conduct or Code of Ethics.
3. Students should be respectful of others and  “… not use the network to send or receive messages that discriminate based on gender, race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, political beliefs, marital status, age, sexual orientation, social and family background, linguistic preference, disability or that are inflammatory.” 

Students encountering unacceptable or questionable material should notify a teacher immediately. 
Those sites will be reviewed and, if necessary, blocked from student use. 

Computer and Internet use is a privilege that can be revoked.  Students who violate the rules for Internet use and safety are subject to disciplinary action as set forth in the Code of Student Conduct.  Discipline by levels as well as a chart for misbehaviors and consequences are found in the School Board’s Code of Student Conduct.  Consequences for computer misuse can range from the lowest Level I discipline of a verbal reprimand to the highest Level IV discipline of a recommended expulsion. 

Library Media Center Computer/Internet Use
Library Media Center implementation of Computer/Internet use:
To aid students, parents and teachers in their understanding of the Internet, workshops may be offered.  These workshops would allow for the teaching of basic use, risks and safety as well as provide an avenue for open discussion of related questions and concerns.  These workshops can be used as a supplement to individual classroom activities designed to teach Internet use and safety.  They are also intended to increase parent and teacher knowledge, support and involvement in their children’s/student’s education.  As educators, it is our hope that in learning together, we will increase our knowledge to help us better understand what our children/students are learning on the information highway.  Please let us know if there is interest in these workshops. 

Library Media Center rules for Internet use:

1. Students in the Library Media Center will be expected to follow all rules and guidelines for appropriate Computer/Internet use. 
2. Students are ultimately responsible and accountable for their use of the Internet.
3. Library Media Center computers are for the express purpose of educational research and work.
4. The playing of computer games is strictly prohibited.
5. Computers may not be used to send or receive e-mail.
6. Students may access appropriate educational sites only and are not permitted to bypass district/school filters that are in place for their safety. 
7. The library staff will monitor student use of the Internet.

Parent Guidelines for Internet Safety
Parent guidelines for Internet safety:
The Internet is an incredible tool for learning!  It is a worldwide system of computer networks available to millions of people who have accessibility to it.  In a school setting, the World Wide Web is used to supplement curriculum-based education.  Its use of instant cross-referencing enables users to locate a wide variety of information on a multitude of topics with just a keyword or phrase.  Text, sounds and images can be accessed with the click of a button to aid students in learning about any number of topics. 
In order for students to take advantage of the educational benefits of the Internet, parents need to sign an Internet Use Agreement along with their child. 

Parents should be informed of Internet safety and know that Internet filtering software is used at school so that they are aware of the precautions being taken to help assure their child is using the Internet appropriately.  Teachers need to monitor student Internet use for the comfort of the teacher and parent as well as for the safety of the child.  Filters and implemented rules do not, however, guarantee that children will be completely safe from the potential risks of Internet use.  Parents should talk with their children about the risks and review safety procedures and precautions with them.  An open dialog between parents and teachers should be maintained so that parents will be up to date on how the Internet is being utilized in school. 

Internet Safety Resources
A number of Internet resources are available which offer students and parents Internet safety tips and guidelines on the importance of online safety:
CyberSmart! offers students and parents information on CyberSecurity and Safety.
Disney offers safety tips as well as information through articles and games.
Microsoft Stay Safe Online offers an easy, kid-friendly guide to the Internet.  Beginning with an introduction by Tara Lipinski, the program is hosted by Shaquille O' Neal.
SafeKids.Com provides Kids’ Rules for Online Safety and Family Contract for Online Safety Kids' Pledge.

Internet filtering software is also available. 
Here is a partial list of companies offering filtering software for home use: 
CYBERsitter
GetNetWise
NetNanny

Additional Web Sites for information on Internet Safety for children:
Parents Guide to the Internet (from the U.S. Department of Education)
Police Notebook: Kid Safety on the Internet
 

All web site links are offered for informational purposes only and are not intended to be an endorsement of any one site.