Student Life: Computer Network, Internet Use Policy
Computer Network and Internet Use Policy
Trinity Episcopal School (TES) is pleased to offer students access to our computer network for academic purposes. We expect students to make responsible use of this service in compliance with our Honor Code. To gain access to network applications and the Internet, all students must obtain parental permission as verified by the signatures on the TES Acceptable Use Policy form (see page 71 in the appendix). Should a parent prefer that a student not have Internet access, use of the computers is still possible for more traditional purposes such as word processing.
I. Purpose
Access to the Internet will enable students to explore thousands of libraries, databases, museums and other repositories of information. Families should be aware that some material accessible via the Internet may contain items that are illegal, defamatory, inaccurate or potentially offensive. While the purpose of the School is to use Internet resources for constructive educational goals, students may find ways to access other materials. We believe that the benefits to students from access to the Internet in the form of information resources and opportunities for collaboration exceed the disadvantages. But ultimately, parents and guardians of minors are responsible for setting and conveying the standards that their children should follow when using media and information sources. Therefore, we support and respect each family's right to decide whether or not to apply for access. However, TES does not agree to enforce parental restrictions that go beyond those imposed by the TES Administration.
II. Expectations
Students are responsible for appropriate behavior on the School's computer network just as they are in a classroom or on a school playground. Communications on the network are often accessible by all at TES. General school rules for behavior and communications apply. It is expected that users will comply with the School’s Honor Code standards and the specific rules set forth. The use of the network is a privilege, not a right, and may be revoked if abused. The user is personally responsible for his/her actions in accessing and utilizing the School's computer resources. The students are advised never to access, keep or send anything that they would not want their peers, parents or teachers to see.
III. Rules
Appropriate Uses –- Use of the TES computer network and electronic devices must have an educational purpose.
Privacy –- Internet activities, including email, are not guaranteed to be private. In any electronic communications, students must not reveal personal information about themselves or others, such as full name, personal address or phone numbers. Whenever such information is requested, students should inform a teacher, parent or supervising adult. TES is not responsible for any damages or injuries suffered as the result of a student releasing personal identification information.
Network Security –- Security on the TES computer system is a high priority. Students shall not take any actions that may disrupt the TES network. Attempts to tamper with the program, individual accounts, software or networking facilities, to access the system in the name of another user or to share a password will result in cancellation of user privileges. Students should NEVER download or install any software, shareware or freeware onto network drives or disks, unless they have written permission from the Network Administrator.
Network Storage –- Network storage areas may be treated like school lockers. Network administrators will periodically review these areas and the files in them to maintain system integrity and to ensure that students are using the system responsibly. Students are not to alter, move or delete files of other students or teachers. Activities relating to or in support of illegal or unlawful acts will be reported to the authorities, and disciplinary action will follow.
Storage Capacity –- Users are expected to delete files and documents that take up excessive storage space.
Lower School Students –- Lower school students will continue to access their files under the “TES” user system.
Middle School Students – 1.) Middle school students are expected to store their files on a portable flash or jump drive as back-up storage; this will allow each student to easily work on files both at school and home. 2.) Students will be assigned individual user ID’s and passwords.
Illegal Copying and Copyright Violations –- Opening, accessing or copying files of other students or faculty may be done only with express permission. All policies related to plagiarism and copyright violations apply to computer files as well as other forms of information.
Inappropriate Materials or Language –- Profane, abusive or impolite language will not be used to communicate, nor will materials be accessed which are not in line with the rules of the School’s overall mission. A good rule to follow is never view, send or access materials that you would not want your teachers and parents to see. These rules and standards apply to personal computer use should the inappropriate behavior spill into school life, interfering with learning and technology. Should students encounter such material by accident, they should report it their teacher immediately. Students should not be using IM (Instant Messaging) while at school. Parents and students should discuss expectations for home IM usage standards, which should reflect the statements above.
IV. Unacceptable Uses
Transmission of material in violation of any federal or state law or regulation or TES policy or regulation is prohibited.
V. Monitoring and Filtering
TES will regularly monitor the online activities of students and will maintain centralized software in order to provide Internet control and filtering. The Internet technology protection package is intended to allow valuable online Internet access while, to the extent possible, inhibiting access to lewd, inappropriate and unlawful sites.
VI. Privileges
As stated above, the use of the TES network is a privilege, not a right. Inappropriate use or other violation of the provisions of this regulation will result in limitation or cancellation of user privileges and possible disciplinary actions. Activity by users is not confidential or private.
VII. Disclaimer
The TES Board of Trustees, faculty and staff will not be responsible for any damages suffered, including loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, service interruptions, students’ mistakes or negligence, costs incurred by students or students’ parents or the accuracy or quality of information received from the Internet.
VIII. Classroom and Student BLOGS or Web sites
Over the courses of this academic year, we will be developing a standard and process for Web BLOGS or Web sites for posting student classroom information and work.
IX. Agreement
All students and their parents must sign the TES Technology Acceptable Use Agreement form [see page 71 in the appendix] prior to accessing the TES network. This form will be sent home at the beginning of the school year and must be signed annually.
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