St. Mary's Acceptable Use Policy

Technology skills are fundamental to the preparation of our students, our future citizens, and employees. Access to the Internet and technology tools (including software tools, web-based applications and services, computer equipment, iPads, and other personal electronic devices) allow our students to conduct research, produce digital content, and communicate with classmates and teachers. The use of technological tools puts an enormous power at the fingertips of all members of our community. As such, it also places a great deal of responsibility on all users.

It is imperative that technology resources be used to build community, encourage critical reflection, and foster readiness for future learning. Developments in technology at St. Mary’s are to be used ethically, legally, and responsibly. It is our aim to provide guidance and instruction to our students in the appropriate use of such resources. As in other areas, our students are expected to make good choices with regard to their behavior on the Internet.

Individual users are responsible for their activity on the Internet and technology tools, including the material stored and information shared. In order to protect the private information of students, unauthorized disclosure, use, or dissemination of students’ personal information is prohibited. The School reserves the right to edit Internet accounts for child-only configurations, and to run filtering software for students’ protection.

The purpose of this policy is to assure that users recognize the limitations the School imposes on their use of technological resources and to establish an Acceptable Use Policy for users.

Acceptable uses of the Internet and technology tools are activities that support learning and teaching. Acceptable uses respect the privacy and property rights of others. Acceptable uses are consistent with Roman Catholic values and morals.

 

Unacceptable uses of the Internet and technology tools include but are not limited to:

 

Harassment/cyber-bullying of others online, including personal attacks against a student, non-student, or faculty member, is serious, is prohibited, and is contrary to the School’s policy and values. Harassment,/cyber-bullying whether it is initiated on campus or off campus, online or in person, should be reported immediately to a faculty member, and may lead to disciplinary action and possible criminal prosecution under Maryland House Bill 396 – Misuse of Interactive Computer Service or “Grace’s Law.”

Parents are responsible for:

 

Failure to adhere to the policy guidelines may result in a revocation of a student’s Internet access and other technology privileges and disciplinary action up to and including suspension or expulsion.

 

St. Mary’s School uses Google Apps for Education as well as other web-based education tools, sites, and services (“web-based services”) to provide students with important web-based educational experiences and enhanced opportunities to communicate and share collaboratively with one another. As a part of students’ use of web-based services, certain educational records may be created, collected, or stored. Directory information, such as a child’s name, email address, grade/age, and enrollment status, may also be shared with web-based services.

The school may access, monitor, and review children’s use of web-based services and Internet use and children shall not have any expectation of privacy with respect to any communications or activities through such services. Use of web- based services is for educational purposes only and subject to the conduct and acceptable use guidelines set forth in this Policy. A list of the School’s web-based services and corresponding privacy policies are available on the School website.

By signing below, you consent to permitting your children to access web-based services and your student’s education records to be created, collected, or stored by such web-based services. In order to withhold or withdraw consent, you must contact the School principal in writing.