Acceptable Use Agreement

Computer, Internet, Social Media, and iPad
Acceptable Use Agreement

The St. Francis High School Student and Family Handbook outlines the school’s mission, identity, and vision. In line with these stated values, this Computer, Internet and Social Media use policy affirms that all members of our school community use computers, the Internet, and social media appropriately. This policy and the documents associated with it define this appropriate use; a personal promise to follow the guidelines and use the equipment and the Internet appropriately is also included.

Computers and the Internet form a vast, global, electronics communication network, linking computers at universities, high schools, science labs, and other sites. Through the Internet, one can communicate with people all over the world through a number of discussion forums, as well a through electronic mail. In addition, many articles are available for downloading from the Internet, many of which are of educational value. Because of its enormous size, the Internet has great potential.

With access to computers and people all over the world comes the availability of material that may not be considered to be of educational value in the context of the school setting. It is impossible to control all materials on this global network, and an industrious user may discover controversial information. St. Francis High School firmly believes that the valuable information and interaction available on this worldwide network far outweigh the possibility that users may procure material that is not consistent with the educational and religious goals of our community.

Internet access is coordinated through a complex association of government agencies and regional and state networks. The smooth operation of the network relies upon the proper conduct of the users, who must adhere to strict guidelines. It is the purpose of these guidelines, as well as the Technology Use Promise, to help all who use the system in an appropriate manner. If a user violates any of these guidelines, his or her access will be terminated and future access could be denied. The IT Director reserves the right to examine the data on the system at any time.

The most important prerequisite for anyone to use the school’s computer/Internet system is that he or she takes full responsibility for his or her own actions. St. Francis High School and the sponsors of the campus Internet connection will not be liable for the actions of anyone connecting to the Internet through the system. All users and the parents of student users shall assume full liability, legal, financial, or otherwise, for their actions.

Computer and Internet Use Policy

Computer System: Terms and Conditions of Use

Individual users are responsible for any activity on their files and for any material stored on their files. Files are to be used exclusively for academic work.
Computer resources are to be used only by those whom the privileges have been granted. Users cannot grant to any one else the use of their privileges. Individual users are expected to maintain adequate security, including the frequent changing of personal passwords.
Individuals may access only those resources for which they have specific authorization. Searching through directories or folders without the expressed permission of the owner is prohibited.
Computer resources of St. Francis High School may not be used for any commercial activity.
All computers and peripheral equipment that are part of the school’s technological resources are to be treated with respect. Only the authorized personnel of the school may alter any equipment or equipment configurations at St. Francis High School.
All activity over the network or using district technologies may be monitored and retained.
Access to online content via the network may be restricted in accordance with our policies and federal regulations, such as the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA).
We will make a reasonable effort to ensure students’ safety and security online, but will not be held accountable for any harm or damages that result from misuse of school technologies.
Users of the network or other technologies are expected to alert IT staff immediately of any concerns for safety or security.

Internet: Terms and Conditions of Use

Acceptable Use:The primary purpose of the Internet connection is to support education by providing access to unique resources and the opportunity for collaborative work. The school’s Internet access must be in support of education and research and consistent with educational objectives. Use of another organization’s network or computing resources must comply with the rules appropriate for that network. Transmission of any material in violation of any national or state regulation is prohibited.

This includes, but is not limited to: copyrighted material,threatening or obscene material,

material protected by trade secret. (Be aware that pirating or transfer of certain kinds of materials is illegal and punishable by fine or jail sentence).

Technologies Covered: St. Francis may provide Internet access, desktop computers, mobile computers or devices, videoconferencing capabilities, online collaboration capabilities, message boards, email, and more.

As new technologies emerge, St. Francis will attempt to provide access to them. The policies outlined in this document are intended to cover all available technologies, not just those specifically listed.

Privileges:The use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use may result in a suspension or cancellation of that privilege. The IT Director will deem what is inappropriate. The administration, faculty, and staff of the school may request that the IT Director deny, revoke, or suspend specific user access privileges.
Network Etiquette:Users are expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette and those established by the St. Francis High school which include (but are not limited to) the following:

Users may not post any personal contact information about themselves or other people.

Personal contact information includes name, home address, telephone number, school address, identification number, or e-mail address.

Users must be polite and use appropriate language.

They may not be abusive in messages to others or use obscene, profane, lewd, vulgar, rude, inflammatory, threatening, or disrespectful language.

Users must promptly report any messages received that are inappropriate or make them feel uncomfortable to the IT Director.
Users must not agree to meet with someone they have met online.
Electronic mail (e-mail) is not private. People who operate the system do have access to all mail. All incoming e-mail will be managed through a school account and may be read by the IT Director.
Illegal activities are strictly forbidden. Users may not attempt to access information that is profane or obscene, that advocates illegal acts, or that advocated violence or discrimination towards other persons.
Messages that relate to or are in support of illegal activities, that is profane or obscene, or that advocates violence must be reported to the IT Director. If a system user mistakenly accesses inappropriate information, he or she must immediately inform the IT Director. This will protect users against a claim that they have intentionally violated this policy. Inappropriate information may not be shown to any other user.
Users may not download any software without the prior consent of the IT Director.
Users may not use the network in such a way that would disrupt the use of the network by other users.
Users may not make any deliberate attempt to disrupt the computer system or destroy data by spreading computer viruses or by any other means.
Users must assume that all communication and information accessible via the network are private property.
Users should also recognize that among the valuable content online is unverified, incorrect, or inappropriate content. Users should use trusted sources when conducting research via the Internet.
Users should also remember not to post anything online that they wouldn’t want parents, teachers, or future colleges or employers to see. Once something is online, it’s out there—and can sometimes be shared and spread in ways you never intended.

Warranties:St. Francis High School makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the Internet services provided. St. Francis High School will not be responsible for any damages suffered, including loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, mis-deliveries, or service interruptions caused by its own negligence or user errors or omissions. Use of any information obtained via the Internet is at the users own risk. St. Francis High School specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy, quality, or timeliness of information obtained through its services.
Web Access: St. Francis provides its users with access to the Internet, including websites, resources, content, and online tools. That access will be restricted in compliance with CIPA regulations and school policies. Web browsing may be monitored and web activity records may be retained indefinitely.

Users are expected to respect that the web filter is a safety precaution, and should not try to circumvent it when browsing the Web with services such as VPN. If a site is blocked and a user believes it shouldn’t be, the user should follow protocol to alert an IT staff member or submit the site for review.

Security: Security on any computer system is a high priority, especially when the system

has many users. If users feel they can identify a security problem on the system, they must notify the IT Director. Users may not demonstrate the problem to other users. Attempts to perform system administrative functions may result in the suspension or cancellation of user privileges. Any user identified as a security risk or having a history of problems with other computer systems may be denied access to the school’s system. Unauthorized access will be treated as theft.

Vandalism:Vandalism may result in cancellation of privileges and other school sanctions.

Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy data of another user, the

Internet, or other agency or networks connected to the Internet. This includes, but is not to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses. Vandalism also includes damage to computer or other parts of the system, or other students devices/iPads.

Plagiarism:Users should not plagiarize (or use as their own, without citing the original creator) content, including words or images, from the Internet. Users should not take credit for things they didn’t create themselves, or misrepresent themselves as an author or creator of something found online. Research conducted via the Internet should be appropriately cited, giving credit to the original author.
Cyberbullying: Cyberbullying will not be tolerated. Harassing, dissing, flaming, denigrating, impersonating, outing, tricking, excluding, and cyberstalking are all examples of cyberbullying. Don’t be mean. Don’t send emails or post comments with the intent of scaring, hurting, or intimidating someone else. Engaging in these behaviors, or any online activities intended to harm (physically or emotionally) another person, will result in severe disciplinary action and loss of privileges. In some cases, cyberbullying can be a crime. Remember that your activities are monitored and retained.
Social/Web 2.0/Collaborative Content: Recognizing that collaboration is essential to education, St. Francis may provide users with access to web sites or tools that allow communication, collaboration, sharing, and messaging among users.

Users are expected to communicate with the same appropriate, safe, mindful, courteous conduct online as offline. Posts, chats, sharing, and messaging may be monitored. Users should be careful not to share personally-identifying information online.

Email: St. Francis provides users with email accounts for the purpose of school-related communication. Availability and use may be restricted based on school policies.

If users are provided with email accounts, they should be used with care. Users should not send personal information; should not attempt to open files or follow links from unknown or untrusted origin; should use appropriate language; and should only communicate with other people as allowed by the district policy or the teacher.

Users are expected to communicate with the same appropriate, safe, mindful, courteous conduct online as offline. Email usage may be monitored and archived. Students are required to check their school emails on a daily basis during the school week, and regularly during vacation time and on the weekends.

Personal Safety: If you see a message, comment, image, or anything else online that makes you concerned for your personal safety, bring it to the attention of an adult (teacher or staff if you are at school; parent if you are using the device at home) immediately. Users should never share personal information, including phone number, address, social security number, birthday, or financial information, over the Internet without adult permission. Users should recognize that communicating over the Internet brings anonymity and associated risks, and should carefully safeguard the personal information of themselves and others. Users should never agree to meet someone they meet online in real life without parental permission.
Limitation of Liability:St. Francis will not be responsible for damage or harm to persons, files, data, or hardware. While St. Francis employs filtering and other safety and security mechanisms, and attempts to ensure their proper function, it makes no guarantees as to their effectiveness. St. Francis will not be responsible, financially or otherwise, for unauthorized transactions conducted over the school network.

Examples of Acceptable Use

I will:

Use school technologies for school-related activities and research.
Follow the same guidelines for respectful, responsible behavior online that I am expected to follow offline.
Treat school resources carefully, and alert staff if there is any problem with their operation.
Encourage positive, constructive discussion if allowed to use communicative or collaborative technologies.
Alert a teacher or other staff member if I see threatening/bullying, inappropriate, or harmful content (images, messages, posts) online.
Use school technologies at appropriate times, in approved places, for educational pursuits only.
Cite sources when using online sites and resources for research; ensure there is no copyright infringement.
Recognize that use of school technologies is a privilege and treat it as such.
Be cautious to protect the safety of myself and others.
Help to protect the security of school resources.

This is not intended to be an exhaustive list. Users should use their own good judgment when using school technologies.

Examples of Unacceptable Use

I will not:

Use school technologies in a way that could be personally or physically harmful to myself or others.
Search inappropriate images or content.
Engage in cyberbullying, harassment, or disrespectful conduct toward others–staff or students.
Try to find ways to circumvent the school’s safety measures and filtering tools.
Use school technologies to send spam or chain mail.
Plagiarize content I find online.
Download and/or use gaming apps.
Post personally-identifying information, about myself or others.
Agree to meet someone I meet online in real life.
Use language online that would be unacceptable in the classroom.
Use school technologies for illegal activities or to pursue information on such activities.
Attempt to hack or access sites, servers, accounts, or content that isn’t intended for my use.

This is not intended to be an exhaustive list. Users should use their own good judgment when using school technologies.

Social Media Use Policy

We encourage teachers, students, staff, and other school community members to use social networking/media (Twitter, Facebook, etc.) as a way to connect with others, share educational resources, create and curate educational content, and enhance the classroom experience. While social networking is fun and valuable, there are some risks you should keep in mind when using these tools. In the social media world, the lines are blurred between what is public or private, personal or professional.

We’ve created these social networking/media guidelines for you to follow when representing the school in the virtual world.

Please do the following:

Use good judgment

We expect you to use good judgment in all situations.
You must know and follow the school’s Student and Family handbook.
Regardless of your privacy settings, assume that all of the information you have shared on your social network is public information.

Be respectful

Always treat others in a respectful, positive and considerate manner.

Be responsible and ethical

Even though you are approved to represent the school, unless you are specifically authorized to speak on behalf of the school as a spokesperson, you should state that the views expressed in your postings, etc. are your own. Stick with discussing school-related matters that are within your area of responsibility.
Be open about your affiliation with the school and the role/position you hold.

Be a good listener

Keep in mind that one of the biggest benefits of social media is that it gives others another way to talk to you, ask questions directly and to share feedback.
Be responsive to others when conversing online. Provide answers, thank people for their comments, and ask for further feedback, etc.
Always do at least as much listening and responding as you do “talking.”

Don’t share the following:

Confidential information

Do not publish, post or release information that is considered confidential or not public. If it seems confidential, it probably is. Online “conversations” are never private. Do not use your birthdate, address, and cell phone number on any public website.

Private and personal information

To ensure your safety, be careful about the type and amount of personal information you provide. Avoid talking about personal schedules or situations.
NEVER give out or transmit personal information of students, parents, or co-workers.
Don’t take information you may receive through social networking (such as e-mail addresses, customer names or telephone numbers) and assume it’s the most up-to-date or correct.
Always respect the privacy of the school community members.

Please be cautious with respect to:

Images

Respect brand, trademark, copyright information and/or images of the school (if applicable).
You may use photos and video (products, etc.) that are available on the school’s website.
It is generally not acceptable to post pictures of students without the expressed written consent of their parents.
Do not post pictures of others (co-workers, etc.) without their permission.

Other sites

A significant part of the interaction on blogs, Twitter, Facebook and other social networks involves passing on interesting content or linking to helpful resources. However, the school is ultimately responsible for any content that is shared. Don’t blindly repost a link without looking at the content first.
Pay attention to the security warnings that pop up on your computer before clicking on unfamiliar links. They actually serve a purpose and protect you and the school.
When using Twitter, Facebook and other tools, be sure to follow their printed terms and conditions.

And if you don’t get it right…

Be sure to correct any mistake you make immediately, and make it clear what you’ve done to fix it.
Apologize for the mistake if the situation warrants it.
If it’s a MAJOR mistake (e.g., exposing private information or reporting confidential information), please let someone know immediately so the school can take the proper steps to help minimize the impact it may have.

iPad User Agreement

St. Francis High School (St. Francis High School) provides iPads to each of its students in order to enable them access to 21st Century learning technology. The iPad is one of many learning tools available to students which can improve productivity, collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, communication, and engagement of all learners. The individual use of iPads enables students to fully realize their learning potential and to prepare them for college and career.

Through use of the iPads, students agree to comply with the requirements identified in the Student-Family Handbook and in the Internet Use Agreement.

Hardware:

St. Francis High School retains sole ownership of the iPads and its related equipment (e.g., charger and usb cable, cover, screen protector). The St. Francis High School Technology Department retains the right to collect and/or inspect the iPads at any time and to alter, add, or delete installed software or hardware.

Replacement of Equipment:

If an iPad requires service, a student will have access to a loaner. The student is required to synchronize the original iPad to the “iCloud” which will allow synchronization of individual data to the loaner on a temporary basis. Upon return of the loaner iPad, the device will be “wiped” (all data removed) by the Technology Department. Damage to, or loss of any software or data residing or recorded on the covered equipment on the student’s iPad is not the responsibility of the school’s Technology Department. The school is not responsible for the possible loss or alteration of any data left on the iPad. Recovery and reinstallation of software programs and user data are the responsibility of the student user.

A loaner iPad is provided when a student’s iPad is submitted as a result of damage, loss, or theft.

Personalization of Equipment:

Students are allowed to alter or add files to customize the iPads to accommodate their own working styles. Personally-chosen items (e.g., apps, photos, music) may be downloaded to the iPad provided they are appropriate for the school setting, procured legally, and do not diminish storage so that necessary programs and data for school are adversely affected. Inappropriate music, photos, videos, etc. on the iPad may result in disciplinary consequences in keeping with the Student-Family Handbook. Staff members have the right to inspect the iPads and covers at any given time without notice.

Students may not permanently alter the iPads in any way, such as by removing serial numbers, or by applying stickers or markings which cannot be easily removed.

The iPad cannot be altered in any way that would violate license agreements or would invalidate the Apple warranty: http://www.apple.com/legal/applecare/appforipad.html

The iPad must contain only school-related apps at all times 365 days a year.

Student’s are responsible for any app installed on their iPad even if that has not been installed by them e.g. sibling, friend, or other family member.

Student’s are not permitted to bypass the school’s network by creating or joining a hotspot.

Students should set a security passcode on their iPads. It is best that students keep the code confidential, other than with their parents. The school has the ability and, if necessary, will bypass the code with justifiable reason.

Care of the iPad:

The student is responsible for the care and maintenance of the iPad and its accessories. Appropriate diligence is expected in order to maintain the iPad in good condition which includes the following:

-- cleaning it appropriately:

To clean the iPad, unplug all cables and turn off the device. See the Apple website at support.apple.com/manuals/ipad or iPad User Guide Apple Website for more information.

-- avoiding willful damage:

This includes causing damage such as altering, defacing or removing the serial number; deliberately damaging the device; negligence, such as failure to properly care for and use the iPad; throwing it; or using it in some other way for which it was not intended.

-- providing secure storage:

The iPad may NOT be stored on campus overnight, nor may it be left unattended on campus. Doing so may result in disciplinary consequences.
Students are responsible to supervise and care for their iPads; namely, to keep the iPads with them while on campus or to store them in a secure location. An iPad which is found on campus unattended will be taken to the school’s main office. Students will be charged $15 to retrieve their iPads which were turned in due to not being supervised.

To avoid damage, it is strongly recommended that students do not eat or drink while using the iPads.

The school-issued iPad must be always kept in the protective cover that was provided with it. Screen protectors are provided by the school and will not be removed until instructed by the school.

Students will maintain the iPads so that they are fully charged at the start of each school day. This requires charging the iPad (100% charge) at home before arriving on campus. Teachers and staff are not required to allow or facilitate the charging of iPads on campus.

Repairs to the iPad are to be done only by the school.

Damage of the Equipment:

In the event the iPad or its accessories are accidentally damaged, the student must bring the device to the IT Director and complete an accident report with 48 hours of the incident happening. The damaged iPad will be shipped by St. Francis High School for repair and the student will be provided a loaner iPad in the meantime. Deductibles for iPad repair will be charged to the student’s FACTS account.

Deductibles for accidental damage:

$150 first incident

Full cost of repair each subsequent incident

When students leave St. Francis they are required to turn in their iPads. These iPads will be evaluated for damages. If an iPad does not meet the minimum acceptable use standards as required by Apple for returns, families may need to purchase the iPad from the school at fair market value.

In the case of accidental damage requiring a replacement of the iPad, the student’s account will be charged for 50% of the replacement cost of a new unit.

The student is responsible for the full replacement cost of damaged accessories (i.e. the charger, usb cable, and the cover).

In the event of willful damage or negligence (as determined and verified by the school administration), the student is responsible for the full cost of the repair or replacement of the damaged iPad or its accessories.

Loss or Theft of the Equipment:

In the event of equipment loss or theft, the student is required to email the IT Director as soon as possible. The student is then required to complete a written “Loss or Theft” report and submit it electronically or by hard copy to the IT Director as soon as feasible, but no later than within 72 hours of the incident. The student will be provided a loaner iPad for use in the meantime, until a replacement is provided.

Deductibles for lost or stolen iPads: $550 per incident

Aside from incidents of lost or stolen iPads, the students’ account shall be charged for the cost of lost accessories (i.e., the charger and cover).

It is strongly recommended that families consider notifying their homeowners or rental insurance company’s representative to report a lost or stolen iPad if the incident occurred off-campus. Some homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policies may cover such incidents to some degree (less the deductible) per the conditions of the policies.

In the event of a stolen iPad, St. Francis High School may require a written police report.

Personal Care and Use of the iPad:

Avoid extended use of the iPad while resting the unit directly on your lap. The device can get uncomfortably warm.

Take frequent breaks from viewing the screen for long periods of time.

Never provide personal information to anyone over the Internet.

Do not share your passwords with others, except for your parents/legal guardians.

Be sure the iPad is secured when off-campus; for example, do not leave it in view in a vehicle, or unattended at a table in a restaurant.

Mobile Device Management:

Students are required to enroll in the mobile device management system (MDM). This system constantly monitors school issued iPads for policy compliance. Any iPad which is not in compliance with the school’s policy may find that their iPad is temporarily unusable.

Returning the iPads:

Students who are no longer enrolled (due to graduation, withdrawal, expulsion, or for any other reason) are required to return the iPad and all its accessories to the main office which will issue a receipt) by their last day of attendance or on the next business day the school office is open. The family is financially responsible for any charges necessitated by damage to or loss of the devices. St. Francis reserves the right to offer these iPads for sale to students leaving St. Francis.

We reserve the right to change these terms and conditions at any time.

The COMPUTER, INTERNET, AND SOCIAL MEDIA USE POLICY is made available to each family. If a student intentionally deviates from this policy, disciplinary action including suspension may be administered at the discretion of the principal or designee, and his or her access may be terminated and future access could be denied. The school principal and IT Director reserve the right to examine any student data at any time. The IT Director and teachers; responsibilities are included in the school’s staff handbook.