Technology and electronic communication device (ECD) users (administrative staff, faculty, and students) are responsible for appropriate behavior and acceptable use when accessing technology in the school. General school rules for conduct and communication apply to Internet and network use or the use of any ECD. This includes but is not limited to computers, scanners, still and video cameras, cell phones, document cameras, SmartBoards, LCD projectors, PDAs, iPads, iPods, Kindles, charging devices, and all electronic devices.
Use of technology shall be considered a privilege, not a right of each individual. Failure of a user to follow acceptable use standards may result in termination of technology privileges, appropriate disciplinary action as stated in school policies, and possible notification of law enforcement. Westlake Academy will cooperate fully with local, state, or federal officials in any investigation related to illegal activities conducted within or through the school system.
Internet, email, and phone use within Westlake Academy should be used solely for educational purposes, although Westlake Academy recognizes that limited personal use by administrative and faculty staff members is authorized so long as it does not interfere with the employee’s duties or the policies of Westlake Academy. It is important to recognize that traditional instructional resources and library materials can be screened with reasonable selection criteria. Technology that links to any public file server provides access to material that may not be considered educationally sound in the context of the school setting.
Westlake Academy has taken precautions to restrict access to unacceptable information in accordance with CIPA rules by employing the use of a firewall/filter, which is automatically and continuously updated to provide protection against current threats. However, it is important to understand that no solution is 100 percent perfect, and at times educational sites may be inadvertently blocked and conversely, inappropriate sites may be accessible. Students will be provided with guidance and instruction in the appropriate use of technology resources including the Internet so that responsible choices can be made in the event that such a breach occurs. Westlake Academy will make no guarantee relating to the reliability of the data connection and therefore will not be held liable for any data loss or data corruption resulting while using Westlake Academy’s network.
Student use of technology will be permitted upon verification of the signing of the Westlake Academy Student-Parent Property Use Agreement form. The principal or designee will maintain signature records, and will be responsible for enforcing the Technology & Electronic Communication Device Acceptable Use Policy. Westlake Academy reserves the right to make amendments to the terms and conditions of this policy without notice.
