MVRHS NETWORK
ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY
FOR STUDENTS
* DRAFT *
Definition of Networks and Systems Covered Under This Policy
There are three basic levels of networks that are covered under this policy. The Local Area Network (LAN) consists of all networked computers at the Martha's Vineyard Regional High School (MVRHS). The Wide Area Network (WAN) consists of the network connecting the MVRHS to all other Island schools, and in the future other Island institutions. The third level is our connection to the Internet. Within each of these networks, all hardware, software, and related peripherals used in connecting to or as a part of the network are included in this policy. In addition, all computers owned or leased by the MVRHS shall be included under this policy.
GUIDELINES
Access to the MVRHS networks is for educational purposes only. This access includes connections made on location (at the MVRHS or any other Island School), through a dial up or other provided access, or through the Internet. Below are categories of acceptable and unacceptable activities for these networks.
1. General
- Access is for educational use only
- All users are expected to exercise responsible and ethical behavior when using these networks
- Students may only access the Internet under the direct supervision of a teacher or staff member.
- Student use of the Internet should be for assignments given by teachers only.
- Nobody is to use access to these networks for private business or gain
- Activity on all network levels is subject to MVRHS and MV Public School regulations, as well as all applicable local, state, federal, and international law.
- All materials stored on MVRHS servers are considered property of MVRHS unless otherwise noted.
- For safety purposes, do not reveal your name, address, phone number, or other personal information to anyone that you do not know.
- Even though security measures are in place, be aware that sometimes information on networks can be accessed. Do not put information on line that you do not want other to have access to (i.e. credit card, bank account numbers, etc.)
- Unauthorized use of copyrighted materials is prohibited.
- Do not use the network in a manner that will unreasonably slow down the system for others. When possible, avoid downloading or setting your browser to view large graphic, sound, or other file types.
- Do not subscribe to any mail or listservs, or any service that will download large numbers of email messages to your mailbox without prior permission from a system administrator or Technology staff person.
- Access to chat groups, video teleconferences, and the like are only to be done with the permission of a teacher or staff member and under their direct supervision.
- If an email account is provided to a user, that person will use it for educational purposes only.
- All users of these networks are representatives of the MVRHS and should present themselves accordingly.
- The MVRHS and Martha's Vineyard Public Schools system reserves the right to examine all data stored in computers that are part of these networks to make sure that all users are in compliance with these regulations.
2. Security
- Use only account(s) assigned to you. Do not use anyone else's account, or let anyone use yours.
- All users with an account will be given a password - do not give your password to anyone else or use another user's password at any time - You will be responsible for all activities taking place on your account
- If you think someone has accessed your account, or has information about your account, notify the system administrator or technology staff immediately. (ie. password, etc)
- If you identify any security problems, notify a system administrator, technology staff, or MVRHS administrator only
- Do not show or identify a security problem to other users
- Any user identified as a security risk, or having a history of problems with other computer systems may be denied access
- Do not upload or download any files that may contain viruses or other destructive applications. Be sure to read all system notices for updates on potentially damaging viruses.
3. Vandalism / Destruction / Unauthorized access of data or files / Harassment
- Do not upload, download, or use on any computer programs that will record or otherwise give access to passwords or other information to allow unauthorized access to a computer or account
- Do not upload or download any virus or other program designed to destroy or in any way compromise the operation of any computer, server, or Network system.
- Any malicious attempt to access, harm, destroy, or alter data of any other user is absolutely prohibited.
- Harassment is defined as the persistent annoyance of another user or to interfere in another user's work. Harassment is prohibited.
4. Responsibilities
- All users are responsible for their user accounts and activities on those accounts
- Users are subject to all applicable laws when using these networks. Violation of any rules may result in disciplinary or legal action from within the District as well as from outside legal authorities.
- Users will not search for or participate in any activity on any network that is obscene, threatening, or contrary to educational pursuits.
5. Penalties
- Any user violating these provisions may lose network privileges temporarily or permanently.
- Users are subject to all other rules and laws applicable when using these networks, and may be punished under MVRHS or District regulations, as well as criminally prosecuted.
- Users may be held responsible for any financial costs incurred as a result of malicious or intentional actions that cause damage to any aspect of the networked system
- School and district administrators will make the final determination on what constitutes unacceptable use. They will handle all punishments covered under this policy and school regulations.
The MVRHS District makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the service it is providing. The District will not be responsible for any damages a user may suffer, including loss of data. The District will not be responsible for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through the Internet or other network connections.
I understand and will abide by the Martha's Vineyard Regional High School District's Network Acceptable Use Policy. I further understand that any violation of this policy is unethical and may constitute a criminal offense. Should I commit any violation, my access privileges may be revoked, I may be financially responsible for damages I have caused by malicious or deliberate actions, and district disciplinary action and/or appropriate legal action may be taken.
Student Signature________________________________ Student - Printed Name________________________________
I, ___________________________, parent and/or guadian of the above, agree to accept all financial and legal liabilities which may result from my son/daughter's use of the MVRHS computer networks (as explained in the opening paragraph of this document). (This is for all children under the age of 18)
Parent/Guardian Signature___________________________ Parent/Guardian - Printed Name__________________________
(if child is under 18 years of age)
Date _____________________________