Internet/Computer/Network

Appropriate Use Policy 

It is the intent of Unified School District No. 273 to provide access for students and staff to state-of-the-art computer technology, electronic mail and the World Wide Web via the Internet a worldwide network of networks. All users must share the responsibility for seeing that our computer facilities are used in an effective, efficient, ethical and lawful manner. It is a privilege to have access to these extraordinary resources. It is understood that all USD #273 employees will comply with this policy.

Employees utilizing District-provided Computer network and/or Internet access are responsible for ethical behavior on-line just as they are in a classroom or any other aspect of their professional life. The same general rules for behavior and communications apply.

The purpose of District-provided computer network and/or Internet access is to facilitate communications in support of research and education. To remain eligible as users, employees must be in support of and consistent with the educational objectives of the Beloit Unified School District.                                                                                                              

Users should not expect that files stored on school-based computers will always be private. Electronic messages and files stored on school-based computers may be reviewed by administrators to maintain system integrity and insure that users are acting responsibly. Data and/or files stored on school computers, and/or networks are the property of USD 273 unless otherwise designated under Policy-IIBG Computer Assisted Instruction and Computer Materials.

The Beloit Unified School District makes no warranties of any kind, neither expressed nor implied, for the computer network/ internet access it provides. The District will not be responsible for any damages users suffer, including-but not limited to-loss of data or interruptions in service. The District will not be responsible for the accuracy, nature or quality of information stored on any form of media; nor for the accuracy, nature, or quality of information gathered through the District-provided computer network and/or internet access. The District will not be responsible for financial obligations resulting from District-provided access to the computer network and/or internet.

Users are responsible for adhering to the following guidelines: 

• Users will respect the integrity of the computers and network system. The computer systems are set up by the system administrator and are not to be altered in any way.
• Users will display appropriate conduct and observe the rules of "Netiquette".
•  Users will respect the rights and privacy of others and not gain unauthorized access to resources of others or vandalize the data of another person or entity. 
• E-mail messages sent to others must be signed by the sender and must use appropriate language which is not abusive, profane or offensive. E-mail will not be used to distribute hate mail, make discriminatory remarks or exhibit antisocial behavior.
• Users will respect the legal protection provided by copyright license to programs, books, data, articles, photography, artwork, etc.
• The internet will be used in support of education and research consistent with the policies of the District including accessing, saving or using only appropriate language, graphics or text. 
• Users agree not to intentionally access transmit materials which are obscene/ pornographic, terroristic or considered offensive.
• The computer network/internet will be used only for lawful and school-related purposes.
  • Use of the computer network/internet for illegal activities, commercial purposes, posting anonymous messages or advertising is strictly prohibited. 
• Employees may use the computer network/internet for personal business and/or research only during non-duty hours.
• All users agree to the following equipment/lab guidelines:
  adhere to general printing and file-saving instructions.
  • use equipment with care and keep the lab/computer area clean and orderly.
  • use only software which has been approved by the system administrator.
    report equipment or software problems.
  • leave all computer materials and equipment in the lab or computer area.

CONSEQUENCES:
 Disciplinary action will be determined at the building level in accordance with existing procedures and practices. Any violation of the above policy may result in loss of District-provided access to the computer network/internet. When and where applicable, law enforcement agencies may be involved.