Acceptable Use Policy
St. Joan of Arc School
2008 - 2009

We believe that technology is a vital means to assist those who carry out the educational ministry of St. Joan of Arc School. St. Joan of Arc School is committed to the goal of having computer and electronic network facilities used in a responsible, efficient, ethical, and legal manner in accordance with our school philosophy. Users must acknowledge their understanding of the general policy as a condition of using the technology and the Internet. All users must sign and return the acceptance form to the Technology Coordinator. Students must also obtain parental permission. Please read this agreement carefully before signing it.

Equipment, Software and Internet

St. Joan of Arc School has an extensive computer network that students and staff can use to access the Internet, conduct on-line research, communicate globally, publish student work and complete assigned tasks. The school considers the use of the equipment, software and Internet a privilege, not a right. With this privilege comes responsibility.

The Internet is an electronic highway connecting millions of computers and computer users all over the world. However, all material available may not be considered to be of educational value in the school setting. St. Joan of Arc School has taken precautions to restrict access to controversial materials. But Internet access requires proper conduct of end users who must adhere to established guidelines. The school provides these guidelines to inform users of their responsibilities. It is presumed that users will comply with the school’s standards and honor the agreement that they sign. St. Joan of Arc School is not responsible for restricting, monitoring or controlling the communication of individuals using the network.

Acceptable Uses

Acceptable uses of the technology, network and online services are activities that support teaching and learning and are consistent with the educational objectives of St. Joan of Arc School. St. Joan of Arc School reserves the right to use student work and limited photos to support the curriculum and for school communications. Network Administrators also reserve the right to review files and communications to maintain system integrity and insure that users are using the system responsibly.

Unacceptable Uses include but are not limited to:

• Sending of displaying offensive messages or pictures
  
• Using obscene language
  
• Harassing, insulting or attacking others
  
• Damaging computers, computer systems or computer networks
  
• Violating copyright laws
  
• Plagiarizing
  
• Using another’s network account
  
• Trespassing in another’s folders, work or files
  
• Intentionally wasting limited resources
  
• Posting person contact or other information about you or other people.
  
• Employing the network for commercial or political purposes
  
• Intentionally disabling or by-passing filtering or security software (students)
  
• Using the network in a way that disrupts other users
  
• Use of e-mail or CHAT except as a teacher directed whole group activity (students)
  
• Downloading or installing software on any school computer or file server without express permission of the technology staff.
• Playing games unless directed by a teacher.
  

Parents:

As the parent or legal guardian of the minor student(s) signing above, I grant permission for my son(s) and/or daughter(s) to use the St. Joan of Arc network and the Internet according to the guidelines outlined above.