Avery County Schools Policy Adopted 1-17-12 Policy Code: 3226/7321

REQUIRED USE POLICY

STUDENT REQUIRED USE AND INTERNET SAFETY POLICY (RUP) (in accordance with Children’s Internet Protection Act [CIPA] and North Carolina Public Law 106-554)

PURPOSE: Avery County Schools (ACS) provides all students access to the Internet, network resources, laptop computers or IPads at all grade levels in order to promote achievement and provide diverse opportunities during the educational experience. This policy provides guidelines and information about the limitations that the school imposes on use of these resources. In addition to this policy, the use of any school computer, including laptop computers and IPads, also requires students to abide by the ACS Technology Use Guidelines as stated in the Student Code of Conduct. Additional rules may be added as necessary and will become a part of this policy.

      TERMS OF THE REQUIRED USE AND INTERNET SAFETY POLICY

Specifically, the student:

ñ Will adhere to these guidelines each time the Internet is used at school or at any time while using a school-owned computer or machine.

ñ Will make available for inspection by an administrator or teacher, upon request, any messages or files sent or received at any Internet location. Files and other electronic information accessed, stored, downloaded, or transferred on district-owned technology are not private and the student has no right to privacy for such content.

ñ Will use appropriate language in all communications avoiding profanity, obscenity, and offensive or inflammatory speech. Cyber-bullying and harassment, such as personal attacks and/or threats on/against anyone made while using district owned technology to access the Internet or local school networks shall be reported to responsible school personnel. Rules of “netiquette” should be followed by conducting oneself in a responsible, ethical, and polite manner.

ñ Will follow copyright laws and will only download/import music or other files to a district owned technology that he/she is authorized or legally permitted to reproduce, or for which he/she has the copyright.

ñ Will never reveal identifying information, files, or communications to others through email or posts to the Internet.

ñ Will not attempt access to networks and other technologies beyond the point of authorized access. This includes, but is not limited to, attempts to use another person’s account and/or password.

Avery County Schools Policy Code: 3226/7321 Page 1 of 9 ñ Will not share passwords or attempt to discover passwords. Sharing a password could make you responsible for another’s misconduct and result in disciplinary action.

ñ Will not download or install malicious software or software that requires administrative or “root” access to install onto district-own technology.

ñ Will not tamper with nor attempt to alter computer hardware or software. Unauthorized entry into computers, vandalism or destruction of the computer or computer files may result in disciplinary action and/or criminal charges.

ñ Will not attempt to override, bypass, or otherwise change the Internet filtering software or other network configurations.

ñ Will use technology for school-related purposes only during the instructional day while refraining from use related to commercial, political, or other private purposes.

ñ Will not make use of materials or attempt to locate materials that are unacceptable in a school setting. Students will recognize that all Internet and electronic communication access is provided to ACS students for educational purposes. Personal use is acceptable as long as such use does not interfere with instructional use. Personal use must comply with all ACS policies and may not involve activities that are unethical, illegal, immoral, profane, obscene, or pornographic. Specifically, all district owned technologies should be free at all times of any pornographic, obscene, graphically violent, or vulgar images, sounds, music, language, video or other materials (files).

ñ Will not connect any personal wireless access points, routers or other network devices to the district owned and maintained local, wide or metro area network. Connection of personal devices such as iPods, smart-phones, PDAs and printers is permitted but not supported by ACS technical staff. Home Internet use and cost is the responsibility of the student both in cost and configuration. Dial-up is not an option as recent laptop configurations do not include modems.

ñ Will keep the district-issued laptop or iPad secure and damage free. Each device is issued with a protective shell cover and a protective sleeve. When the device is being transported, it must be in its sleeve and must be secured in a carrying bag.

ñ Will not loan your laptop or charger and cords to anyone.

ñ Will not leave the laptop in vehicle due to concerns of theft and temperature extremes that may damage the device.

ñ Will not leave your laptop unattended, either on school property or off school property.

ñ Will not eat or drink while using the laptop or have food or drinks in close proximity to the laptop.

ñ Will not allow pets near your laptop.

ñ Will not place the laptop on the floor or in sitting areas such as couches or chairs.

Avery County Schools Policy Code: 3226/7321 Page 2 of 9 ñ Will not leave the laptop near table or desk edges.

ñ Will not stack objects on top of your laptop.

ñ Will not leave the laptop outside or use near water, such as a pool.

ñ Will not check the laptop as luggage at the airport.

ñ Will back up data and other important files regularly. ACS will at times maintenance the laptops by imaging. All files not backed up to server storage space or other storage media will be deleted during these processes. Students are ultimately responsible for backing up all personal files.

ñ At the end of each school year, laptop computers will be returned to ACS for repair and servicing needs.

Disclaimer: The Avery County Board of Education or its employees will not be responsible for any damages suffered including lack of file or e-mail privacy, a loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, or service interruptions. The Board is also not responsible for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through the network including objectionable materials and/or viewpoints. The user accepts personal responsibility for any information obtained or delivered via the network, including the sharing of personal information such as home address, checking accounts or credit card information.

By signing this you agree to abide by the conditions listed above and assume responsibility for the care and proper use of ACS technology, including personally backing up personal data. ACS is not responsible for any loss resulting from delays, non-deliveries, missed deliveries, lost data, or service interruptions caused by user errors, omissions, or reasons beyond the district’s control. Information obtained via the Internet and other sources using ACS technologies is not guaranteed as to its accuracy or quality. I understand that should I fail to honor all the terms of this Policy, future Internet and other electronic media accessibility may be denied. Furthermore, I may be subject to disciplinary action outlined in the ACS Student Code of Conduct and, if applicable, my laptop computer or iPad may be recalled.

Avery County Schools Policy Code: 3226/7321 Page 3 of 9 Avery County Schools Required Use Policy Agreement Form

By signing below, I give permission for the school to allow my son or daughter to have access to the Internet under the conditions set forth above. As the parent/guardian, my signature indicates I have read or had explained to me and understand this Required Use Policy (Policy

3226/7321), and give my permission for my child to have access to the described electronic

resources.

Parent/Guardian (please print): __________

Parent/Guardian Signature: ____Date: ____

As the student, my signature indicates I have read or had explained to me and understand this Required Use Policy, and accept responsibility for abiding by the terms and conditions outlined and using these resources for educational purposes.

Student (please print): ___________

Student Signature: ______Date:____

Terms and Conditions: This RUP is valid through June 30, 2012. The signed copy will be kept on file by Avery County Schools.

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Avery County Schools Policy Code: 3226/7321 Page 4 of 9 Usage of ACS Technology Avery County Schools Parent/Guardian and Student Guide for Student Laptop and iPad Usage 2011-2012 ñ ACS will provide a protective shell cover and a padded sleeve for the laptop’s protection. This must be used at ALL times when the device is being transported. ñ Willful and deliberate damages to the computers will cause the Avery County Schools to charge the student/parent the full cost of the replacement or repairs of the computer. Such cases may be turned over to the Avery County Sheriff's Department. ñ In the event a district-issued device is stolen, a report to law enforcement must be made and a copy of the official police report must be provided to the Avery County Schools Superintendent or his/her designee. ñ ALL damage incidents will be investigated by administration. ñ The Avery County Schools will not cover repairs resulting from: ñ Damage caused by use with non-Apple product, including damage caused by operating the product outside the permitted or intended uses described by Apple. ñ Damage resulting in a broken screen. ñ Damage caused by accident, abuse, misuse, flood, fire, earthquake, or other external cause. ñ Damage as a result of the violation of the RUP (e.g. involving food, drink, or other liquid on or near the laptop). ñ Damage as a result of negligence (e.g. the laptop is placed in an unsafe location or position, misuse, or laptop not handled properly. This includes damage resulting from removing the protective laptop cover. ñ Damage caused by service performed by anyone who is not a representative of Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider. ñ Damage to a part or product that has been modified to alter functionality or capability without the written permission of Apple. ñ Consumable parts, such as batteries, unless damage has occurred due to a defect in materials or workmanship. ñ Damage that is cosmetic, including, but not limited to scratches, dents, and broken area around ports, that does not otherwise affect functionality or materially impair your ability to use the device. ñ Any issue when the Apple serial numbers have been removed. ñ Loaning your laptop or charger to another student.

ñ Leaving the laptop or charger unattended may result in loss or theft, in which case the
   student will be responsible for the cost of a replacement.

Avery County Schools Policy Code: 3226/7321 Page 5 of 9 Technical Support The Help Desk at each school serves as the primary agent of customer service and liaison assisting students in maintaining MacBooks and iPads in condition to positively shape learning.

AppleCare warranty covers an extensive array of common repairs. The process for preparing a warranty-classified repair will be determined by the Help Desk Manager and the ACS Technology Department.

AppleCare does not warranty repairs from issues resulting from:

ñ Damage caused by use with non-Apple products.

ñ Damage caused by accident, abuse, misuse, flood, fire, earthquake, or other external causes.

ñ Damage caused by operating the product outside the permitted or intended uses described by Apple.

ñ Damage caused by service performed by anyone who is not a representative of Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider.

ñ Damage to a part or product that has been modified to alter functionality or capability without the written permission of Apple.

ñ Consumable parts, such as batteries, unless damage has occurred due to a defect in materials or workmanship.

ñ Damage that is cosmetic, including, but not limited to scratches, dents, and broken plastic on ports, that does not otherwise affect functionality or materially impair your use.

ñ Any issue when the Apple serial numbers have been removed.

After hours and on weekends, should technical support be required, call Apple Technical Support at (800) 800-2775, Option 3. You will be asked to provide the serial number for the MacBook you are using. The serial number is located on a label located on the bottom of the MacBook.

Avery County Schools Policy Code: 3226/7321 Page 6 of 9 RESPONSIBILITIES OF AVERY COUNTY SCHOOLS STAFF MEMBERS

Faculty and other staff in the Avery County Schools will use Internet and electronic information resources for instructional, professional development, or school-related purposes.

All employees are responsible for professional and ethical behavior when using school computer networks. The school computer networks are provided for staff to conduct research, communicate with others, and carry out professional responsibilities. The school computer shall not be used for profit or for commercial purposes. The use of the Internet and School Network Access is a privilege, not a right.

All staff should maintain the highest ethical behavior in the use of the Internet and other on-line resources and should promote that behavior among students. It is the responsibility of the staff to:

ñ      Follow the same criteria for Internet resources that apply for all instructional
     materials under Avery County Schools’ Policy 3200 Selection of Textbooks and
     Supplementary Materials and Policy 3230/7330 Copyright Compliance.

ñ        Point students toward worthwhile sites on the Internet that will amplify their
     knowledge and experience in curricular areas. Lesson preparation is required if students
     are to use Internet resources wisely.

ñ        Supervise all students using the Internet and other on-line resources. It is essential
     that faculty guide students in the responsible use of Internet resources.

Employees of the Avery County Schools must understand that the Avery County Schools cannot control the content of the information available on the Internet. A small amount of information accessible through the Internet may be inappropriate and/or offensive. The system does not condone the use of such materials and takes reasonable precautions to limit access to these materials. School employees should be aware that access to the Internet will be withdrawn from users who do not respect the rights of others or who do not follow the Terms and Conditions established by the Avery County Schools 3225/7320 ACSNet Acceptable Use. Failure to follow these requirements could result in additional disciplinary action including termination.

Network administrators may review files and communications to maintain system integrity and to insure that users are utilizing the system responsibly. There can be no expectation of privacy regarding data or communications when using district-issued computer devices.

The Board of Education directs staff to use responsible measures to ensure the security and integrity of data but assumes no responsibility for objectionable materials and/or viewpoints, system failure, or loss of data.

A copy of the Avery County Schools Policy 3225/7320 ACSNet Acceptable Use is available from each school or the central office, and is posted along with other district policies on the Avery County Schools website.

Terms and Conditions I. Responsible Use: Avery County Schools’ network is to be used in a responsible, efficient,

Avery County Schools Policy Code: 3226/7321 Page 7 of 9 ethical, and legal manner and must be in support of the educational objectives and employee guidelines of the Avery County Schools. Transmission of any material in violation of any federal or state regulations is prohibited.

Unacceptable uses include, but are not limited to the following: ñ Violating copyright laws. ñ Using threatening or obscene material. ñ Distributing material protected by trade secret. ñ Utilizing the network for personal and/or commercial purposes. ñ Assisting a campaign for election of any person to any office. ñ Sharing confidential information on students or employees.

II. Privileges: The use of the Avery County Schools’ networks is a privilege not a right. Network access entails responsibility. Inappropriate use will result in limitation or cancellation of user privileges and possible disciplinary action including termination.

III. Netiquette Rules: Users must abide by network etiquette rules. These rules include but are not limited to the following:

ñ       Be polite – rudeness is never acceptable.

ñ       Use appropriate language – do not swear, or use vulgarities, or any other abusive or
     inappropriate language.

ñ       Do not send or display potentially offensive messages or pictures.

ñ       Do not use sexually explicit or harassing language.

ñ       Be aware that you should not reveal your personal address or telephone number or
     those of anyone else.

ñ       Be aware that you should not reveal credit or checking account information or social
     security numbers across the Internet.

ñ       Do not disrupt the use of the network.

ñ       Do not attempt to gain unauthorized access to system programs or computer.

ñ       Assume that all communications and information accessible via the network are
     private property, which does not belong to you.

ñ        Do not use another’s user ID or password, or trespass in another’s folders, work or
     files.

When creating or posting material to a webpage or other Internet site, employees should remember that the content may be viewed by anyone, including community members, students and parents.

Avery County Schools Policy Code: 3226/7321 Page 8 of 9 Employees are to maintain an appropriate relationship with students at all times, including when communicating with students through electronic means or over the internet. Please see policy 7310 for more information.

IV. Disclaimer: The Avery County Board of Education or its employees will not be responsible for any damages suffered including lack of file or e-mail privacy, and loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, or service interruptions. The Board is also not responsible for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through the network including objectionable materials and/or viewpoints. The user accepts personal responsibility for any information obtained or delivered via the network, including the sharing of personal information such as home address, checking accounts, or credit card information.

V. 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 or to share a password may result in cancellation of user privileges and disciplinary action. If a security problem is identified, notify the system administrator at the school. Do not demonstrate the problem to other users. Note that electronic mail is not guaranteed to be private; network administrators have access to all mail. Messages relating to, or in support of illegal activities may be reported to the authorities.

VI. Vandalism: At a minimum, vandalism will result in cancellation of user privileges and possible disciplinary action. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy equipment, programs, and/or data of anyone connected to an individual computer, to the server and/or the Internet. This also includes, but is not limited to, uploading, creating, or transmitting computer viruses.

VII. Accounts: Employees may be assigned individual e-mail accounts to be used for instructional purposes. Employees should not assume that information in these accounts will always be private. Inappropriate use of e-mail accounts will result in cancellation of user privileges.

VIII. Privacy: Network administrators may review files and communications to maintain system integrity and insure that users are using the system responsibly. Users should not assume that files stored on district servers and hard drives of individual computers will always be private. Avery County Schools Employment Agreement for Access to Networked Information Resources (Responsible Use Policy RUP) Employee Agreement:

I understand and will abide by the Terms and Conditions of the Avery County Schools’ Responsible Use Policy for Access to Networked Information Resources. I further understand that any violation of this policy could result in loss of Internet/e-mail and other related privileges or other disciplinary actions.

Employee Signature: _____ Date: _

Adopted: 01/17/12

Avery County Schools Policy Code: 3226/7321 Page 9 of 9