Internet Safety Policy

INTERNET SAFETY POLICY

Posted May, 2014

Introduction

It is the policy of SDGVA School to:

a.     prevent users from accessing or transmitting inappropriate material over its network via the Internet, electronic mail, or other forms of direct electronic communications;

b.     prevent unauthorized access and other unlawful online activity;

c.     prevent unauthorized online disclosure, use, or dissemination of personal identification information of minors; and

d.     comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act [Pub. L. No. 106-554 and 47 USC 254(h)].

Access to Inappropriate Material

To the extent practical, technology protection measures including Internet filters shall be used to block or filter the Internet or other forms of electronic communications and access to inappropriate information.

Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, blocking shall be applied to visual depictions of material deemed obscene or to child pornography or to any material deemed harmful to minors.

Subject to staff supervision, technology protection measures may be disabled or, in the case of minors, minimized only for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.

Inappropriate Network Usage

To the extent practical, steps shall be taken to promote the safety and security of users of the SDGVA School’s online computer network when using electronic mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, and other forms of direct electronic communications.

Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act prevention of inappropriate network usage includes:

a.     unauthorized access, including so-called hacking, and other unlawful activities; and

b.     unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors.

Supervision and Monitoring

It shall be the responsibility of all members of the SDGVA School’s staff to supervise and monitor usage of the online computer network and access to the Internet in accordance with this policy and the Children’s Internet Protection Act.

Procedures for the disabling or otherwise modifying any technology protection measures shall be the responsibility of Director of Technology or designated representatives.

Public Review

The Internet Safety Policy is part of the school's student/parent handbook which was shared with the school community at a public meeting on June 3rd 2014.

Revisions to the Internet Safety Policy will be on an as need basis under the direction of the Director of Technology.