Stonington Technology
Acceptable Use Policy (TAUP)

STONINGTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS
TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY AGREEMENT
(Please read this document carefully before signing)

Technology is people using knowledge, tools, and resources to solve problems. Computers and the Internet are by-products of technology. Currently, technology and Internet access is available to students, faculty, and staff in the Stonington Public Schools.

Our goal in providing technology as a service to faculty, staff, and students is to promote educational excellence in our schools by encouraging resource sharing, innovation, and communication.

Purpose of the Acceptable Use Policy Agreement
Access to computers and people all over the world through technology brings with it the availability of material that may not be considered appropriate in a school setting. Stonington Public Schools has taken precautions to restrict access to controversial materials. We firmly believe that the value of the information and interactions available on a global level far outweigh the possibility that users may access material that is not consistent with the educational goals of the district.

In addition, the smooth operation of our network relies upon the proper conduct of the end user. The guidelines provided here will make you aware of your responsibilities. They ensure efficient, ethical, and legal use of Stonington Public Schools technology and the Internet. If a Stonington Public Schools user violates any of these provisions, his/her technology privileges will be limited and potentially terminated, with further disciplinary actions possible.

Terms and Conditions of Technology and Internet Use
· It is a privilege to receive access to school technology and the Internet.
· Initially, all users are free to use school technology and the Internet after receiving instruction.
· A RESPONSIBLE user of school technology and the Internet will continue to have access privileges as long as the user is a member of the faculty or staff, or is a student.

Responsible users may:
· Use technology and the Internet to research and produce work related to classroom assignments.
· Use software on Stonington Public Schools computers for educational purposes in compliance with copyright laws.
· Use the Internet to send and receive school-related, web-based electronic mail (NOTE: Students must be supervised by a faculty or staff member while using electronic mail).

Responsible users shall not:
· Use technology or the Internet for any illegal purposes.
· Change any computer settings or files, or download programs unless given permission to do so by a faculty or staff member.
· Use real-time Internet based communication tools such as chat rooms and instant messaging software.
· Send or receive copyrighted materials with out permission of the author or owner. (Please see Stonington Public Schools Policy #5143)
· Use the Internet to view inappropriate web sites or other inappropriate on-line materials as defined by the administration and Board of Education policy.

System administrators will have access to all technology and Internet facilities and will monitor technology use behavior on a consistent basis.

Students should seek assistance from a teacher or media specialist in the building or contact the Stonington Public Schools Technology Facilitator, if they are unsure of proper procedures.

STONINGTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS
TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY AGREEMENT

Section to be filled out by Student and Parent/Guardian

Student Name Last/ First: ______________________________________________________

Teacher Name: ______________________________________________________________

I have read the TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY AGREEMENT. I will follow the guidelines. If I do not follow the guidelines. I understand that my technology and Internet privileges may be taken away.

Student Signature: _____________________________________ Date: ________________

I have read and discussed the TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY AGREEMENT with my child. I understand that the Internet is a network connecting thousands of computers and millions of individuals all over the world. I know that Stonington Public Schools does not control the content of all of these networks. When using technology and the Internet, I realize that students may read material that is controversial or offensive. I give permission for my child to have access to technology and the Internet available in Stonington Public Schools. I understand that my child may continue this access as long as the procedures described in this Agreement are followed.

Parent Signature: ______________________________________ Date: ________________
Section to be filled out by Faculty or Staff member 

I have read the TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY AGREEMENT. I understand that the Internet is a network connecting thousands of computers and millions of individuals all over the world. I know that Stonington Public Schools does not control the content of all of these networks. When using technology and the Internet, I realize that I may read material that is controversial or offensive. I understand that I may continue this access as long as the procedures described in this Agreement are followed.

Signature: ______________________________________ Date: ________________