Acceptable Use Policies and Safety and Security of Information Systems:
by Marbelia Suniga
•Find the Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) for your school district. Is it online? Please give the URL. The AUP for Spring Branch can be found online at http://www.springbranchisd.com/admin/tcom/policy/policy.htm.
•Read the AUP and list a few of the interesting points in the AUP (things you did not know). Students shall retain all rights to work they create using the District's electronic communications system. Parents should know that the district shall not be responsible for ensuring the accuracy, age appropriateness, or usability of any information found on the Internet.
•How does the AUP address parent permission requirements for student Internet access? Spring Branch isd has a Guideline for Student Acceptable Use Guidelines for Technology Resources. There is also a parent signature form where parents agree that their children can use the District's technology resources.
•What modifications can be made for students who are not allowed Internet access? Students who are not allowed Internet access should still be allowed to use the computer for educational purposes. Students can use the computer with permission from the teacher and also supervised by a teacher. This way students will still receive the necessary skills needed to fulfill their technology requirements.
•What information does the AUP contain concerning security of information systems at your school? The Spring Branch website also includes acceptable use guidelines for technology resources which include guidelines for Spring Branch employees to follow. They have set a policy to ensure that technology is being used appropriately and for educational purposes.
•What technology is used to protect students from inappropriate Internet content? There is no technology that will protect the students from inappropriate Internet content. However, the student will not be able to access the Internet without permission from the teacher.
•If such technology is not being used, what precautions are teachers required to take to ensure student safety? The students will access technology resources only under the supervision of a teacher. Access only curriculum-related materials for educational use under the direction of a teacher.
•What precautions are taken to protect student/teacher information? Work that is created by any student or teacher will be posted unless the district has received approval from permission form.