K-12 Acceptable Use Policies (AUPs) FAQ

[Tim McLain <tmc@WENTWORTH.COM>]

K-12 Acceptable Use Policies (AUPs) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Last-modified: October 11, 1995

Common Questions and Answers about the creation of Acceptable Use Policies
(AUPs) governing Internet use in a K-12 setting.

The K-12 AUP FAQ is maintained by the writing staff of Classroom Connect, a
monthly publication devoted to helping educators and students make the most
of the Internet in the elementary and secondary classroom. PLEASE send us
any updates and corrections right away via email to Tim McLain
<tmc@classroom.net> or Vince DiStefano <vinced@classroom.net>.

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The most recent version of this FAQ can be obtained through email:

Email to:  info@classroom.net
Type  send aup-faq  in the body of the message

.... via anonymous ftp:

Ftp to:  ftp.classroom.net
Go to the wentworth/Classroom-Connect subdirectory and retrieve the
aup-faq.txt  file.

....or via your World Wide Web browser.

URL: ftp://ftp.classroom.net/wentworth/Classroom-Connect/aup-faq.txt

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List of questions in the K-12 AUP FAQ:

Q0:  What is Classroom Connect, and why are they hosting this FAQ?
Q1:  Why are Acceptable Use Policies necessary in K-12 schools?
Q2:  What is an AUP, exactly?
Q3:  What's in an AUP?
Q4:  What does an AUP actually "look" like?
Q5:  Where can I find examples of AUPs online?
Q6:  Are there any printed references concerning AUPs available?
Q7:  Are there any mailing lists devoted to AUPs?

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Q0:  What is Classroom Connect, and why are they hosting this FAQ?

A0:  Classroom Connect is a monthly publication devoted to helping
educators integrate the Internet and its resources into the K-12
curriculum. One of the things that we here at the publication stress is
that all schools hooking up to the Internet need a Technology Plan and a
solid Acceptable Use Policy (AUP). The FAQ that follows is a combination of
several stories we've published about AUPs over the past year and a half,
combined with the best AUP resources we've found on the Net itself. We've
rapidly become "experts" in the field of AUPs, and have helped dozens of
schools create their own AUPs. Thus, we created this file to answer common
questions about these policies, and will continue to update and refine this
document until it becomes the standard online work on the subject.

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Q1:  Why are Acceptable Use Policies necessary in K-12 schools?

A1: Educators the world over know that bringing the Internet into the
classroom promotes educational excellence and breathes new life and
excitement into the educational experience. But teachers and parents are
justifiably concerned about the appropriateness of some of the material
available to students online, and how Internet connections are actually
being put to use in schools. They are becoming aware that regulating how
Internet connections are used in schools is almost as important as getting
connected. Such concerns are understandable, don't let them keep the
Internet out of your school or stall your district's move to full Net
connectivity. It's just too valuable.

Most schools and districts that are already online have taken measures to
help keep inappropriate material out of the school setting. Hardware and
software controls are often used to limit student and faculty access to
certain Internet resources, such as specific Usenet newsgroups. To get more
information about the latest Internet "control" software, follow these
instructions.

Email to: info@classroom.net
Type  send controls on the body of your message

Sometimes the computers themselves are made unavailable except by
appointment and under strict supervision. Yet, there's no guarantee that
users won't find a way to access "bad" material or misuse their time on the
Net.

To protect the school and reassure parents, administrators and technology
coordinators must create and implement an Acceptable Use Policy, or AUP.

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Q2:  What is an AUP, exactly?

A2: An AUP is a written agreement, signed by students, their parents, and
teachers, outlining the terms and conditions of Internet use. It
specifically sets out acceptable uses, rules of online behavior, and access
privileges. Also covered are penalties for violations of the policy,
including security violations and vandalism of the system. Anyone using a
school's Internet connection should be required to sign an AUP, and know
that it will be kept on file as a legal, binding document.

AUPs are still a relatively new concept, so your administrators and school
solicitor may only now be learning of their existence. You can save time
and gain the benefit of other schools' experience by reviewing AUPs already
in use.

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Q3:  What's in an AUP?

A3: Here's a detailed rundown of what should be included in your school's
AUP, along with sample wordings for each section.

1. First, the policy should explain what the Internet is, how students and
teachers will be accessing it, and how it will be used in classrooms. Don't
assume that parents know what the Internet is, how your school will gain
access to it, or how it will be used as a valuable resource in the
classroom. Bring them up to speed with as little techno-jargon as possible,
but be sure to cover all of the basics in this first part of your AUP.

Sample wording: "Internet access is now available to students and teachers
in our school district. The access is being offered as part of a
collaborative project involving your student's school and a local Internet
Service Provider. Our goal in providing this service to teachers and
students is to promote  educational excellence in the district by
facilitating  resource sharing, innovation, and communication. Our
connection provides direct access the Internet. The Internet is an
"electronic highway" connecting millions of computers all over the world,
and millions of individual users. Your student will be using it in the
classroom to communicate with fellow students all over the planet..."

2. Next, explain the responsibilities of the students while online. Stress
how important it is to have the Internet in the classroom, but also make
parents aware of the potential risks of obtaining "objectional" material.
Be sure to mention both the name and capabilities of any special protection
software your school may be using, such as SurfWatch or CyberPatrol.

Sample wording: "With access to computers and people all over the world
also comes the  availability of material that may not be considered to be
of educational value in the context of the school setting. We have taken
available precautions, which are limited, to restrict access to
controversial materials, using SurfWatch software. Internet access is
coordinated through a complex association of government agencies, and
regional and state networks. In addition, the smooth operation of the
network relies upon the proper conduct of the end  users who must adhere to
strict guidelines.  These guidelines are  provided here so that you are
aware of the responsibilities you are about  to acquire. These
responsibilities include not violating the privacy of other users, the
right of all users to free expression, not plagiarizing other users'
works..."

3. Then, make it clear that use of the Net is a privilege and not a right,
and outline the penalties and repercussions of violating the AUP. Some
schools issue a warning letter to students and parents after the first
violation; subsequent violations may be cause for access restrictions or
suspensions. Consider including a short paragraph about Internet etiquette.

Sample wording: "The use of our Internet connection is a privilege, not a
right, and inappropriate use will result in a cancellation of those
privileges.  (Each student who receives an account will be part of a
discussion with a faculty member pertaining to the proper use of the
network, called netiquette.) Based  upon the acceptable use guidelines
outlined in this document, the system  administrators will deem what is
inappropriate use and their decision is final. The administration, faculty,
and staff of may request the system administrator to deny, revoke, or
suspend specific user accounts..."

4. Finally, provide space for everyone to sign. Students should sign to
show that they have read the document and understand its contents. Parents
sign to verify that they're aware that their child could access potentially
inappropriate material, and that they accept responsibility if their child
accesses your school's Internet connection from home. Teachers should sign
on behalf of the school.

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Q4:  What does a sample AUP look like?

A4: Colorado's Boulder Valley School District uses an AUP that's an
excellent example of a successful policy now in use at one the United
State's most pioneering schools. It's reprinted below for your use.

Boulder Valley School District
APPLICATION FOR ACCOUNT AND TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR USE

Please read the following carefully before signing the attached  contract.

This is a legally binding document.

Internet access is now available to students and teachers in the Boulder
Valley School District.  The access is being offered as part of a
collaborative project involving the Boulder Valley School District (BVSD),
The University of Colorado at Boulder (UCB), Colorado SuperNet  (CSN),
WestNet and the National Science Foundation.

We are very pleased  to bring this access to Boulder Valley and believe the
BVSDNet offers vast, diverse, and unique resources to both students and
teachers.  Our  goal in providing this service to teachers and students is
to promote  educational excellence in the Boulder Valley Schools by
facilitating  resource sharing, innovation, and communication.

The BVSDNet is an electronic network which accesses the Internet.  The
Internet is an electronic highway connecting thousands of computers all
over the world and millions of individual subscribers.  Students and
teachers have access to electronic mail communication with people all over
the world; information and news from NASA as well as the opportunity to
correspond  with the scientists at NASA and other research institutions;
public domain and shareware software of all types; discussion groups on a
plethora of topics ranging from Chinese culture  to the environment to
music to politics; access to many University Library Catalogs, the Library
of Congress,  CARL and ERIC.

With access to computers and people all over the world also comes the
availability of material that may not be considered to be of educational
value in the context of the school setting.  BVSD, UCB, and CSN have  taken
available precautions, which are limited, to restrict access to
controversial materials.  However, on a global network it is impossible  to
control all materials and an industrious user may discover controversial
information.   We (BVSD, UCB, and CSN) firmly believe that the valuable
information and interaction available on this worldwide  network far
outweighs the possibility that users may procure material  that is not
consistent with the educational goals of this Project.

Internet access is coordinated through a complex association of  government
agencies, and regional and state networks. In addition, the  smooth
operation of the network relies upon the proper conduct of the end  users
who must adhere to strict guidelines. These guidelines are  provided here
so that you are aware of the responsibilities you are about  to acquire. In
general this requires efficient, ethical and legal utilization of the
network resources.  If a BVSD user violates any of these provisions, his or
her account with BVSDNet will be terminated and  future access could
possibly be denied.

Your signature(s) on the  attached contract is (are) legally binding and
indicates the party  (parties) who signed has (have) read the terms and
conditions carefully  and understand(s) their significance.

BVSDNet - Terms and Conditions (version 2.0, 8/26/93)

1)  Acceptable Use - The purpose of NSFNet, which is the backbone network
to the Internet, is to support research and education in and among
academic institutions in the U.S. by providing access to unique resources
and the opportunity for collaborative work.  The use of your account must
be in support of education and research and consistent with the
educational objectives of the Boulder Valley School District.  Use of
other organization's networks or computing resources must comply with the
rules appropriate for that network. Transmission of any material in
violation of any U.S. or state regulation is prohibited.  This includes,
but is not limited to: copyrighted material, threatening or obscene
material, or material protected by trade secret.  Use for commercial
activities by for-profit institutions is generally not acceptable.  Use for
product advertisement or political lobbying is also prohibited. Illegal
activities are strictly prohibited.

2)  Privileges - The use of BVSDNet is a privilege, not a right, and
inappropriate use will result in a cancellation of those privileges.
(Each student who receives an account will be part of a discussion with a
BVSD faculty member pertaining to the proper use of the network.) Based
upon the acceptable use guidelines outlined in this document, the system
administrators will deem what is inappropriate use and their decision is
final.  Also, the system administrators may close an account at any time
as required.  The administration, faculty, and staff of BVSD may request
the system administrator to deny, revoke, or suspend specific user
accounts.

3)  Netiquette - You are expected to abide by the generally accepted  rules
of network etiquette.  These include (but are not limited to) the
following:

Be polite. Do not write or send abusive messages to others.
Use appropriate language. Do not swear, use vulgarities or any  other
inappropriate language.

Do not reveal your personal address or phone numbers of students  or
colleagues.

Note that electronic mail (e-mail) is not guaranteed to be  private.
People who operate the system do have access to all mail.   Messages
relating to or in support of illegal activities may be reported  to the
authorities.

Do not use the network in such a way that you would disrupt the  use of the
network by other users (e.g. downloading huge files during  prime time;
sending mass e-mail messages; annoying other users using the  talk or write
functions).

All communications and information accessible via the network  should be
assumed to be private property.

4)  Reliability - BVSD, CSN, and UCB make no warranties of any kind,
whether expressed or implied, for the service it is providing.  BVSD,  CSN,
and UCB will not be responsible for any damages you suffer.  This  includes
loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, misdeliveries, or
service interruptions caused by it's own negligence or  your errors or
omissions.  Use of any information obtained via BVSD, CSN,  or UCB  is at
your own risk.  BVSD, CSN, and UCB specifically deny any responsibility for
the accuracy or quality of information obtained  through its services.
5)  Security - Security on any computer system is a high priority,
especially when the system involves many users.  If you feel you can
identify a security problem on BVSDNet, you must notify a system
administrator or e-mail help@bvsd.k12.co.us.  Do not demonstrate the
problem to other users. Do not use another individual's account without
written permission from that individual.  Do not give your password to  any
other individual.  Attempts to log in to the system as any other user  will
result in cancellation of user privileges. Attempts to login to  BVSDNet as
a system administrator will result in cancellation of user  privileges.
Any user identified as a security risk or having a history  of problems
with other computer systems may be denied access to BVSDNet.

6)  Vandalism - Vandalism will result in cancellation of privileges.
Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy data of
another user, BVSDNet, or any of the above listed agencies or other
networks that are connected to CSN, or the NSFNet Internet backbone. This
includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of  computer
viruses.

7)  Updating Your User Information  - BVSDNet may occasionally require  new
registration and account information from you to continue the  service.
You must notify BVSDNet of any changes in your account information
(address, etc.).  Currently, there are no user fees for this  service.

8)  Exception of Terms and Conditions - All terms and conditions as  stated
in this document are applicable to the Boulder Valley School  District,
the University of Colorado, in addition to Colorado SuperNet,  WestNet and
NSFNet.  These terms and conditions reflect the entire  agreement of the
parties and supersedes all prior oral or written  agreements and
understandings of the parties. These terms and conditions  shall be
governed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the  State of
Colorado, United States of America.

Any Boulder Valley School District student or staff may apply for an
Internet Account.  To do so you must complete the attached contract and
application.  Students should return the contract to the person from whom
they received the contract.  Staff should return the contract to Libby
Black in the Curriculum Office at the Ed Center. You may retain this copy
of the Terms and Conditions for your files.


STUDENT

Last Name:_________________________________
First Name:  ________________________________
Expected Year Of Graduation from 12th grade:  ___________
Class Period:  ___________


STUDENT CONTRACT AGREEMENT and APPLICATION FOR  BOULDER VALLEY SCHOOL
DISTRICT  INTERNET ACCOUNT

Directions:  After reading the BVSDNet Application for Account and Terms
and Conditions (version 2.0) please read and fill out the appropriate
portions of the following contract completely and legibly.  The signature
of a parent or guardian is also required.  Please return the contract to
your teacher.  Any questions should be addressed to your teacher as well.

CONTRACT PORTION OF DOCUMENT
I have read the BVSDNet Terms and Conditions. I understand and will abide
by the stated Terms and Conditions for  BVSDNet.  I further understand that
violation of the regulations is  unethical and may constitute a criminal
offense.  Should I commit any violation my access privileges may be
revoked, school disciplinary action  may be taken and/or appropriate legal
action.

User Name (please print): ___________________________
User Signature:  ____________________________________
Date:  ____/____/____

PARENT OR GUARDIAN (If the applicant is under the age of 18 a parent or
guardian most also read and sign this agreement.)

As the parent or Guardian of this student I have read the Terms and
Conditions for BVSDNet (version 2.0).  I understand that this access is
designed for educational purposes and BVSD, UCB and CSN have taken
available precautions to eliminate controversial material.

However, I  also recognize it is impossible for BVSD, UCB or CSN to
restrict access  to all controversial materials and I will not hold them
responsible for  materials acquired on the network.  Further, I accept full
responsibility for supervision if and when my child's use is not in a
school setting.  I hereby give my permission to issue an account for my
child and certify that the information contained on this form is correct.

Parent or Guardian (please print):

___________________________________________
Signature:  _______________________________
Date: ____/____/____
Daytime Phone Number:  _____________________
Evening Phone Number:  _____________________

SPONSORING TEACHER
I have read the Terms and Conditions of BVSDNet  (version 2.0) and agree to
promote this agreement with the student.   Because the student may use the
network for individual work or in the  context of another class, I cannot
be held responsible for the student's  use of the network.  As the
sponsoring teacher I do agree to instruct the  student on acceptable use of
the network and proper network etiquette.

Teacher's Name (please print):

______________________________________________
Teacher's Signature:  ________________________
Date:____/____/____

APPLICATION PORTION OF DOCUMENT
Student's Full Name (please print):_____________________
Student I.D.  Number (accounts cannot  be issued without this):
 ___________________
I expect to graduate from 12th grade in ________ (year).
Your Home Address:      _______________________________
                                _________________________________
Home Phone:  ___________________________
Current School:  ________________________________

When your account is established your teacher will notify you of your
logon name and user password.  Thank you for your interest and support of
this exciting new resource in the Boulder Valley Schools.


TEACHER/STAFF APPLICATION
Last Name:________________________________
First Name:  ________________________________
Circle One: Teacher, media specialist, administrator, support staff,
community member

STAFF CONTRACT AGREEMENT and APPLICATION FOR  BOULDERVALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT
INTERNET ACCOUNT

Directions:  After reading the BVSDNet Application for Account and Terms
and Conditions (version 2.0) please read and fill out the appropriate
portions of the following contract completely and legibly.  Please return
the contract to Libby Black in the Curriculum Office at the Ed Center.

Full Name (please print):____________________________
Social Security Number (accounts cannot  be issued without this):
______________
Home Address:           ________________________________________
                        ________________________________________
Home Phone:  ______________________
Work Phone:  ______________________
I am a....  (check one)

______  BVSD teacher, teaching________________ at (subject/grade)
________________________________________ (school)

______  BVSD staff working at ______________________ (location)
in the capacity of _________________________________

______  Boulder Valley School District community member.


CONTRACT PORTION OF DOCUMENT
I have read the BVSDNet Terms and Conditions.  I  understand and will abide
by the stated Terms and Conditions for  BVSDNet.  I further understand that
violation of the regulations is  unethical and may constitute a criminal
offense.  Should I commit any violation my access privileges may be revoked
and/or appropriate legal  action taken.  I understand that if I switch
schools or leave the Boulder  Valley School
District I must notify the Internet Director.

User Name (please print):________________
User Signature:  ______________________
Date:  ____/____/____

When your account is established you will be notified of your password  and
logon.  Thank you for your interest and support of this exciting new
resource in the Boulder Valley Schools.

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Q5:  Where can I find examples of AUPs online?

A5: Before creating your own AUP, take the time to see what other schools
have done. Many AUPs that are already in use by schools across the country
have made copies available online. Use these as a template for creating
your own, modifying it as necessary to fit your particular needs.

This pair of gopher sites contain actual AUPs and links to more than a
hundred more.

Gopher to:  ericir.syr.edu
Look in Internet Guides & Directories, Acceptable Use Policies,
Agreements for K-12

Gopher to:  riceinfo.rice.edu
Look in Information by Subject Area, Education, Accecptable & Unacceptable
Uses of Net Resouces (K12)

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Q6:  Are there any printed references concerning AUPs available?

A6: Three books are now available on the subject, filled with real-world
examples of K-12 AUPs, and tips for creating them.

Anthology of Internet Acceptable Use Policies
National Association of Regional Media Centers
$20 (Includes S&H)
(712) 722-4378

Plans & Policies for Technology in Education
National School Boards Association
$35
(800) 706-6722

Telecommunications & Education: Surfing and the Art of Change
National School Boards Association
$28.95
(800) 706-6722

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Q7:  Are there any mailing lists devoted to AUPs?

A7: When doing your AUP homework, don't forget to take full advantage of
Internet mailing lists to discuss your needs, ask questions, and talk with
other educators who have successfully implimented an AUP at their schools.

Acceptable Use Policies in K-12
Email to:  k12-aup-request@merit.edu
Type  subscribe  in the body of the message

Consortium for School Networking (CoSN)
Email to:  listserv@listserv.net
Type  subscribe cosndisc <Your Full Name>  in the body of the message and
leave the subject line blank

Kidsphere
Email to:  kidsphere-request@vms.cis.pitt.edu
Type  subscribe kidsphere <Your Name>  in the body of the message

EDNet mailing list
Email to:  listproc@lists.umass.edu
Type  subscribe ednet <Your Name>  in the body of the message

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