Dickinson Area Catholic School

Acceptable Use for Network Resources and Internet

The following page contains information relating to the acceptable use of the Internet and school network for students of Dickinson Area Catholic School. After you have read the questions and answers, outlined for you, determine whether or not you wish your son/daughter to have access to the Network Resources and Internet and sign the accompanying agreement. Any student who does not have a signed acceptable use agreement will be denied access to the Internet.

What is the Internet?

• The Internet is a global, electronic information infrastructure containing a network of information regarding: education, businesses, the government, the military, and other private and public organizations.
• It is accessed with computer, modem and special computer software.

What is considered acceptable use of the Internet in the school setting?

• The purpose of the system is to support research and education in and among academic institutions in the United Stats by providing access to unique resources and the opportunity for collaborative work.

Who has access to the Internet in our school?

• The use of the internet is a privilege available for any student in grades k-8 who has signed parental permission to use the Internet.

What is the Network?

• The network is a system of resources such as: computers, software, electronic mail (e-mail) and other telecommunications that allows direct intercommunication within the school.
• The network is managed by a person(s) who are responsible for upkeep and maintenance. The individuals have access to all Internet accounts and e-mail.

How does a student get onto the Internet?

• The Internet is available on all computers that are connected to the network.
• A student must enter a Username and Password to gain access to the Network and to the Internet.
• This password must be used every time a student “logs on” the Internet.
• Each student will be assigned a username and password from the technology coordinator.

Who is responsible for using the Internet in an acceptable manner?

• The student who has “logged on” is responsible for using the Internet in an educationally acceptable manner.
• Educators will work with students to help develop the skills needed to: discriminate among information sources, to identify information appropriate to their age and development level, and to evaluate and use the information to meet their educational goals.
• While it is possible to select some resources that will be more easily available to students, school officials cannot promise to control the Internet environment for students. Because information appears, disappears and changes, it is not possible to predict or control what students may locate.
• Electronic mail (e-mail) is not guaranteed to be private. The technology coordinator has access to all mail.

What is considered to be unacceptable use of the Network and the Internet?

• Since the use of the Internet falls within the educational program of our school, all policies regarding student conduct are strictly enforced. Misuse may include, but is not limited to: altering system software; placing of unauthorized information, computer viruses, or harmful programs; sending inappropriate public or private messages. In addition, messages or material relating to, or in support of illegal activities may be reported to the authorities.

What happens if the Internet is misused by a student?

• The use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use may result in cancellation of those privileges for a student.
• Students, staff and parents are advised that some systems may contain inappropriate material. School administrators and staff do not condone the use of such materials and do not permit usage of such materials in the school environment.