IJNDB - STUDENT COMPUTER, DEVICE, AND INTERNET USE

IJNDB - STUDENT COMPUTER, DEVICE, AND INTERNET USE

 

RSU 21’s computers, devices, network, and Internet access are provided to support the educational mission of the schools and to enhance the curriculum and learning opportunities for students and school staff. This policy and the accompanying rules also apply to laptops issued directly to students, whether in use at school or off school premises. Students are allowed to use privately owned computers and devices at school with prior authorization, provided that they comply with this policy and the accompanying rules. 

Compliance with the school unit’s policies and rules concerning computer/device, network, and Internet services use is mandatory. Students who violate these policies and rules may, after being given an opportunity to respond to an alleged violation, have their privileges limited, suspended or revoked. The building administrator shall have the final authority to decide whether a student’s privileges will be altered, based on the circumstances of the particular case. Such violations may also result in disciplinary action, referral to law enforcement, and/or legal action. 

RSU 21 computers/devices, network, and Internet services remain under the control, custody, and supervision of the school unit at all times. The school unit monitors all computer/device, network, and Internet activity by students. Students have no expectation of privacy in their use of school computers/devices, networks, and Internet services, whether they are used on or off school property.

RSU 21 utilizes filtering technology designed to block materials that are obscene or harmful to minors, and child pornography. RSU 21 takes precautions to supervise student use of the Internet and also educates students about appropriate use of the Internet, but parents should be aware that the RSU 21 cannot reasonably prevent all instances of inappropriate computer use by students that may violate Board of Directors’ policies and rules, including access to objectionable materials and communication with persons outside of the school. The school unit is not responsible for the accuracy or quality of information that students obtain through the Internet.

The Superintendent/designee shall be responsible for integrating age-appropriate Internet safety training and “digital citizenship” into the curriculum and for documentation of Internet safety training.  All schools in RSU 21 will educate students about cyberbullying awareness and response, and about appropriate online behavior, including interacting with other individuals on social networking websites and in chat rooms. Students and parents shall be informed of this policy and the accompanying rules through handbooks, the school website, and/or other means selected by the Superintendent. 

The Superintendent or his/her designee is responsible for implementing this policy and the accompanying rules. Additional administrative procedures or school rules governing the day-to-day management and operations of the school unit’s computer system may be implemented by the Superintendent, consistent with Board of Directors policy to govern Internet access and the day-to-day management, security, and operations of the school unit’s computer and network systems and to prevent the unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal information regarding minors.

 

Cross Reference: IJNDB-R – Student Computer/Device and Internet Use Rules

JICIA – Weapons, Violence, Bullying and School Safety 

JICK - Bullying

GCSA – Employee Computer/Device and Internet Use 

EGAD – Copyright Compliance 

GBEB – Staff Conduct with Students

 

Legal Reference: 47 USC § 254(h)(5) (Children’s Internet Protection Act)

Reviewed: 01/25/2010

Amended: 03/05/2012

Amended: 11/04/2013

Amended: 04/30/2018