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)
