INTERNET SAFETY- For Teachers
 

Here are a few salient points taken from the district AUP (Appropriate Use Policy): 

  • The District's Internet service has a very specific, limited purpose, to enhance the delivery of educational activities.
  • In utilizing Internet resources for classroom activities, teachers will select materials that are appropriate to the age of the students as well as that which is relevant to the course objectives.
  • Teachers will preview sites they require or recommend to students.

 

Here are a few reminders and tips to help your staff better understand their role in this process:

  • Teachers should review and model appropriate usage of the Internet at the start of each school year. 
  • Students who do not have parental consent for Internet usage, should never be allowed to access the Internet - even under the supervision of the teacher.  Teachers may use the Internet for demonstration purposes, or use offline content for these students.  This rule applies for all teachers in contact with the students (i.e. dimensions, specials areas, support services, etc...).
  • Students should NOT be allowed access to the Internet during recess time for recreational use (i.e. Internet games).  If certain students need to use the computer for classroom assignments during recess time, then they must be under close supervision by a teacher.
  • Teachers MUST PREVIEW the sites they require or recommend to students.  Teachers should avoid sites, as useful as they may be, which contain banner or popup ads.
  • NO filtering software can guarantee 100% effectiveness.  NO filtering software can replace the supervision that our students need and deserve when utilizing the Internet. 
  • If teachers encounter any inappropriate use of the Internet, they must report it to the building principal for discipline.  If any inappropriate sites were accessed in spite of our filter, teachers must report the incident to the building principal and the Supervisor of Technology for immediate manual block of that site and appropriate disciplinary action.
  • Not all search engines serve the same purpose.  Students should be taught how to utilize specific search engines (that teachers have previewed) for "research."  They should be directed to these specific search engines that serve the goals of the lesson.