Student Use of the Internet & Electronic Communications

Internet Policy

Use of the Internet and electronic communications require students to think critically, analyze information, write clearly, use problem-solving skills, and hone computer and research skills that employers demand. Use of these tools also encourages an attitude of lifelong learning and offers an opportunity for students to participate in distance learning activities, ask questions of 21 and consult with experts, communicate with other students and individuals, and locate material to meet educational and personal information needs. 

The Internet and electronic communications are fluid environments in which students may access materials and information from many sources, including some that may be harmful to students. While it is impossible to predict with certainty what information students might locate or come into contact with, the district shall take reasonable steps to protect students from accessing material and information that is obscene, child pornography, pornographic or otherwise harmful to minors, as defined by the Board. Students shall take responsibility for their own use of district technology devices to avoid contact with material or information that may be harmful to minors. For purposes of this policy, “district technology device” means any district-owned computer, hardware, software, or other technology that is used for learning purposes and has access to the Internet.

No Expectation of Privacy

District technology devices are owned by the district and are intended for educational purposes at all times. Students shall have no expectation of privacy when using district technology devices. The district reserves the right to monitor, inspect, copy, review, and store (at any time and without prior notice) all usage of district technology devices, including all Internet and electronic communications access and transmission/receipt of materials and information. All material and information accessed/received through district technology devices shall remain the property of the school district. 

District 6 requires parents and eligible students to sign its Annual Acceptable Use Agreement regarding the use of district technology. Any violation of the Annual Acceptance Use Agreement may result in a loss of access privileges, as well as disciplinary and/or legal action depending on the severity of the violation. For more information, please refer to Board policies JS, and the Annual Use Acceptance Agreement under Board policy JS-E.

Cell Phones & Devices

The Board of Education believes personal technology devices may be useful tools for students in the educational environment and can play a vital communication role during emergency situations. However, use of personal technology devices (PTD) in school situations must be regulated to assure that the use of such devices does not disrupt or interfere with the educational process or school operations. Therefore, students may only use PTDs on district property, on a district vehicle or at a district or school-sponsored activity or event in accordance with this policy.

 For purposes of this policy, “personal technology device" (PTD) includes any privately-owned portable technology device, including but not limited to cell phones, pagers, tablets, laptops, cameras, audio and/or video recorders and players, and all other hand-held electronic communication and data storage devices. 

Students may use PTDs as a designated tool for learning if authorized by the student's teacher. It is the student's responsibility to ensure that the PTD is turned off or placed in silent mode during unauthorized times.

Students’ use of PTDs with cameras and/or video recording capabilities is prohibited in locker rooms, bathrooms, or any other location where such use could violate another person's reasonable expectation of privacy. Students shall not use PTDs to engage in, promote or facilitate any other conduct that violates the student code of conduct, other Board policies or regulations, or state or federal law. 

Violation of this policy or any other district, school or classroom rule or regulation on student use of PTDs may result in disciplinary measures and/or temporary confiscation of the PTD. Confiscated devices shall be returned to the student only after a conference with the parent/guardian, student and school personnel. If the building principal or designee believes a student's possession or use of a PTD may involve a violation of the law, the building principal or designee may also refer the matter to law enforcement. 

The district shall not be responsible for loss, theft or destruction of PTDs brought onto school or district property or while the student is attending district or school-sponsored activities or events. 
Please refer to Board policies JICJ, JIC, JIH, JK, and JS for more information regarding District 6 policies and procedures regarding the use of PTD at school or during school activities.