HeartWorks Student Internet Access Policies

Students will have access to the Internet. Internet use will be monitored by HeartWorks staff. Making Internet access available to students carries with it the potential that some students may encounter information that may not be appropriate for them. The Internet is not only an open system, but one in continual flux-with information appearing, disappearing, and changing quite rapidly. Thus, it is not possible to fully predict or control what students may locate. Though supervising staff will guide students in their use of the Internet, and attempt to restrict their access to inappropriate materials, HeartWorks cannot guarantee that students will not encounter such materials.

Acceptable Use-

Use of the Internet must be in support of education and research and consistent with the educational objectives of HeartWorks. Transmission of any material in violation of any law of regulation, including any HeartWorks policy, is prohibited. Use of the Internet for commercial activities is prohibited, as is use for political lobbying.

Restricted Material-

Users shall not intentionally access or download any text file, picture (including video), graphic or sound clip, or engage in any conference that includes material which is obscene, libelous, indecent, vulgar, profane or lewd, or which advertises any product or service not permitted to minors by law.

Network Etiquette-

Users are expected to abide by the following rules of network etiquette:

Use appropriate language. Use of language which is vulgar, profane, or lewd is prohibited.

Do not send messages which include insulting or fighting words or expressions which are designed, intended, or likely to injure or harass others.

Do not give out personal information such as home address, home phone number, cell phone number, last name, social security number, or credit card numbers whether about yourself or about other students or colleagues.

Note that electronic mail (e-mail) is not guaranteed to be private. People who operate the system may be able to access all mail. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities may be reported to the authorities.

Do not use the network in such a way as to disrupt the use of the network by other users.

All communications and information accessible via the network should be assumed to be private property.

Do not use HeartWorks' computer network for the purpose of hacking or to gain unauthorized access to other computers or computer systems, files, or data.

Users shall not attempt to alter the network, disable security features, or evade network filtering. Personal devices shall not be attached to the network without explicit permission of the network administrator.

Users should respect all copyright, trademark, and licensing agreements and laws, including seeking permission when required.

HeartWorks' network or computer equipment shall not be used for personal commercial transactions.

Quality of Information-

HeartWorks makes no warranties of any kind, whether express or implied, for the service it is providing. HeartWorks will not be responsible for any damages suffered by any user. Such damages include, but are not limited to, loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, mis-deliveries, or service interruptions, whether caused by the school system's or the user's negligence, errors, or omissions. Use of any information obtained via the Internet is at the risk of the user. HeartWorks specifically disclaims any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through its Internet services.

Privileges-

The use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right. This privilege may be revoked for violation of HeartWorks policy. Inappropriate or illegal use of the Internet may also result in disciplinary or legal action.

Student Contract

I have read the above Internet policies for HeartWorks and its Programs. I understand and will abide by the stated rules and regulations. I further understand that violation of these rules and regulations may result in revocation of my access privileges, disciplinary behavior, and/or appropriate legal action.

Student's Name (please print): Date: _

Parental Consent Form

As the parent/guardian of this student, I have read above Internet policies for HeartWorks and its Programs. I understand that access to the Internet is designed for educational purposes and that all students will be supervised and monitored. I recognize it may be impossible to prevent accidental access to controversial or offensive materials. However, I also believe that the valuable information and interaction on this work-wide network far outweighs the possibility that users may procure material that is not consistent with the educational goals of HeartWorks and its Programs.

I hereby give my permission to allow my child access to the Internet. I understand that my child may continue this access as long as the rules and regulations described in the policies described above and in the Student/Parent Handbook are followed.