Internet Acceptable Use Policy**

Dear Parent(s) and/or Guardian:

Your son or daughter will have the opportunity to use the Anne Arundel County Public Schools’ computer network, which includes access to the Internet. The primary reason for using the Internet is to participate in curricular projects developed or utilized by some of your child's teachers. Additionally, the adoption of online local and state testing is gaining popularity and is expected to become a common practice in the near future. A multitude of instructional opportunities are  prevalent on the internet. These resources make it possible for teachers to increase local instructional materials with a vast array of content designed by experts from all over the world.

In order to participate in the learning opportunities available over the internet, your child will be issued a student logon that will enable him/her to access the network. This logon will allow your child to take part in curricular activities designed and monitored by his/her teacher, take web-based tests and utilize software applications specially designed to provide your child with an enriched instructional environment.

Access to the internet means there is potential availability of materials that may be deemed objectionable. Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS) has implemented a state-of-the-art content filtering system to ensure that students access information consistent with the goals of our instructional program. The filtering system is effective in blocking access to inappropriate content such as pornography, violence, and terrorist sites. However, it must be stated that it is impossible to limit/control access to all materials on such a global network.

The student is responsible for appropriate behavior while using the school’s computer network in the same manner as they are expected to exercise responsible behavior anywhere in the school. The following activities described below are deemed unacceptable. (These are samples of activities and are not to be considered all-inclusive)

• Using someone else's network logon.

• Using any network account for non-school related activity.

• Unauthorized copying of licensed software (also illegal).

• Downloading material for the purpose of plagiarizing its contents.

• "Instant" messaging.

• Removing or damaging computer components.

• Seeking to override or bypass computer or network security provisions.

• Accessing of obscene or inappropriate materials.

• Student use of obscenity or profanity on a computer or network.

Using the school computer network is a privilege, not a right. Violations of the above guidelines will result in the student losing his/her computer network privileges or other disciplinary actions depending on the severity of the infraction. Anne Arundel County Public Schools is committed to providing quality instructional opportunities for all students. The use of technology and the Internet are now essential components of the overall instructional program. Please take a few moments to discuss with your child the importance of using these resources responsibly.

** Also view Board of Education Administrative Regulations 409, 607.02, 607.02A, and 902.03A to read more about AACPS policy relating to internet use by teachers and students.