II. Unacceptable uses include, but are not limited to, the following:
Downloading copyrighted materials without written permission Using peer-to-peer file-sharing software programs Forwarding personal communications without the author’s prior consent Using threatening or obscene material Distributing material protected by trade secret Utilizing the network, accounts, or equipment for commercial purposes Distributing political, commercial, or religious information Using offensive or harassing statements or language including profanity, vulgarity, and/or disparagement of others based on their race, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, and religious or political beliefs Sending or soliciting sexually oriented messages or images Sending chain letters or soliciting money for any reason Sending messages related to or in support of illegal activities Disrupting the network Sending SPAM/inappropriate mass mailings Accessing programs not appropriate for educational use including non-educational games Attempting to gain unauthorized access to system programs or computer equipment Distributing or copying software in such a way that the number of simultaneous users exceeds the number of licenses purchased. Posting web pages that are vindictive, detrimental, or vengeful towards the school system, individual schools, personnel, or students Using information or images in violation of copyright/trademark laws
III. Privileges: The use of Anson County Schools’ networks is a privilege, not a right. Inappropriate use may result in disciplinary action.
IV. Security: Security on any computer system is a high priority, especially when the system involves many users. Attempts to login to the system as any other user, to share a password, or allow a security breach may result in cancellation of user privileges. If a security problem is identified, personnel should notify the building administrator and not demonstrate the problem to other users.
A. Network Security – All network users will be assigned a username and password to access Anson County Schools network components. After signing the Acceptable Use Policy, network/Internet privileges will be assigned. Passwords should be kept private and should be changed regularly. Security software is installed on all client computers on the Anson County Schools network to prevent intentional or unintentional access to information on the Anson County School computer network. Internet security software is used to help filter out inappropriate websites. Violation of network security can include loss of Internet access, loss of network computer usage or loss of local network privileges.
B. Safeguarding Information – All personnel and students are responsible for safeguarding information located on Anson County Schools’ computer systems. The responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Keeping usernames and passwords private Storing files in home directories, on electronic media, or in shared folders on the network servers Logging off when leaving the computer Compliance with FERPA guidelines limiting access to personal student information
C. Software Security – Only members of the Technology Department (or persons designated by the Technology Director) are permitted to install software in Anson County Schools. All software purchased for use within the Anson County Schools computer network will be reviewed by the Technology Department to ensure network security and compatibility. Each school should catalogue purchased and donated software. All software must have a license for each computer on which it is installed.
D. Vandalism – Vandalism will result in cancellation of user privileges and disciplinary/legal action. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy equipment, programs, and /or data of anyone connected to the network or standalone computers. This included, but is not limited to uploading, creating or transmitting computer viruses, hacking, theft and unauthorized intrusion.
- IV.
- E-mail Accounts: Employees will be assigned individual accounts. Email accounts are to be used only by the owner unless written permission is obtained from the owner of the account. Impersonation and anonymity is not allowed. Electronic mail is not guaranteed to be private; system operators have access to all email. Upon leaving the school system, the employee account will be terminated.
- V.
- Privacy: Network administrators may review files and communications to maintain system integrity. Files stored on district servers and hard drives of individual computers are not private. Confidential files (i.e., Personnel, Exceptional Children) are to be accessed only by appropriate personnel. The school district may monitor all communication and intercept e-mail messages as part of ensuring compliance with board policy and applicable laws and regulations.
VI. Disclaimer: Anson County Schools will not be responsible for any damages suffered, including loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, service interruptions, inaccurate information, or hardware failure. Employees of Anson County Schools must understand that Anson County Schools cannot control the content of the information available on the Internet. Some information may be controversial and/or offensive. The system does not condone the use of such materials and takes all reasonable precautions to limit access to these materials by using filtering and blocking technology. Within reason, freedom of speech and access to information will be honored. School employees should be aware that access to the network and Internet will be withdrawn from users who do not respect the rights of others or who do not follow the rules and regulations established by the Anson County School System and their school. The user accepts personal responsibility for any information obtained or sent via the network, including the sharing of personal information such as home address, checking account and credit card information. The Anson County School System disclaims responsibility for the loss of data or interference with files resulting from its efforts to maintain the privacy and security of the system’s computer/technology facilities.
Legal Reference: U.S. Const. amend. I; 17 U.S.C. 100 et seq.; Electronic Communications Privacy Act, 18 U.S.C. 2510-2522; Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, 20 U.S.C. 1232g; G.S. 115C-391, -325(e)
Cross Reference: Curriculum and Instructional Guides (policy 3115), Technology in the Educational Program (policy 3220), Copyright Complaint (policy 3230/7330), Integrity and Civility (policy 4310), Public Records (policy 5070), Staff Responsibilities (policy 7300)
