Purpose

The primary purpose of the campus computer network is educational. The network serves as a resource for enriching teaching and learning objectives at New Hope Christian School. Approved uses of the computer network are intended to enhance the established curriculum. Users are responsible for ensuring that their activities conform to New Hope’s standards as an institution of Christian education, in obedience to Biblical commands and values.

The network is not for any private, commercial or business, or political use.

If a password is assigned to a student, that password should remain secure. Passwords should not be shared or transferred. All users of the network will be held accountable for their use of the computer, including any use of a computer by someone using their password.

Privilege

All use of the computer network is a privilege and not a right. All users assume responsibility--personal, legal, financial, and otherwise--for their actions while using the computer network and while accessing Internet content over the school network. Inappropriate use can result in cancellation or restriction of access privileges, in addition to disciplinary or possible legal action.

All users must sign and return a student consent form, which will indicate agreement with this Acceptable Use Policy.

Parents of students under age 18 will receive a parent consent form, which must also be signed and returned before the student may be allowed access to the network.

• Involvement in any activity prohibited by law
• Transfer or storage of large files without permission
• Attempting to establish a commercial venture on the network
• Involvement with online games or gambling
• Storing and/or transferring obscene, pornographic, or sexually explicit materials
• Transferring “chain” type letters
• Sharing passwords
• Leaving a computer open or unattended without approval
• Accessing any area of the school network without permission
• Interfering with normal and proper network operations
• Interfering with normal and proper Internet access/operations
• Refusal to grant access to files or directories used during school hours, regardless of their actual location (this includes personal email accounts, if used at school during school hours)
• Accessing computer files of other students or staff
• Copying protected software without authorization or permission
• Loading software of any kind without approval and permission
• Conduct on the Internet or over the network that is harmful, harassing, or otherwise offensive to others
• Abuse or damage to computer equipment or software, especially if due to direct violation of these rules
• Using the network or Internet access for personal or entertainment purposes without approval or permission
• Downloading any file for any reason without specific approval from the system administrator or teaching personnel
• Any use of outside resources, such as online resources at Chemeketa Community College, that does not conform to their Acceptable Use Policy or rules. Violators are subject to penalties both at New Hope and at the outside resource.

Professional Liability

The system administrator and teaching staff at the school are not responsible for the actions or activities of students while using the computer network. While students will be supervised while using the network, it is impossible for the system administrator or teaching personnel to control or supervise the activities of every student in the lab at all times.

Interpretation, application, and modification of this Acceptable Use Policy are within the sole authority and discretion of New Hope Christian Schools, Inc. Any questions or issues concerning these policies and regulations should be directed to the system administrator at the school office.