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ELKHORN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Student Computing Device Usage Handbook

The policies, procedures, and information within this document apply to all computing devices used at Elkhorn Public Schools by students including any other device considered by the Administration to fall under these policies.

Student Computing Device Essentials

Receiving Your Student Computing Device

  • Parent/Guardian Orientation

All parents/guardians are expected to attend an orientation and sign the Elkhorn Public Schools Student Computing Device Agreement before a device will be issued to their student. 

  • Distribution

Students will receive their Student Computing Device and related peripherals within the first two weeks of school. Students and parents/guardians will need to sign the EPS Student Computing Device Receipt before receiving their Student Computing Device. 

  • Transfer/New Student Distribution

All transfers/new students will be able to pick up their Student Computing Device from the school media center/technology office. Both students and their parents/guardians are expected to watch a video tutorial and sign the Elkhorn Public Schools Student Computing Device Agreement prior to picking up a Student Computing Device. 

Returning Your Student Computing Device

  • End of Year

Students returning to the district the next school year, will retain their Student Computing Device and all issued peripherals over the summer unless parents elect to return their student’s device for the summer.  

  • Transferring/Withdrawing Students

Students who transfer out of or withdraw from the Elkhorn Public Schools must turn in their Student Computing Devices and related peripherals to the media center/technology office on or before their last day of attendance. Failure to turn in the Student Computing Device will result in the student being charged the full replacement cost. Unpaid fines and fees of students leaving the Elkhorn Public Schools may be turned over to a collection agency. The district may also file a report of stolen property with the Omaha Police Department.

EPS Student Computing Device Coverage Program

Elkhorn Public Schools offers the opportunity to participate in the optional EPS Student Computing Device Coverage Program designed to protect students and families from full financial responsibility for device repairs and/or replacement.  Families enrolled in the EPS Student Computing Device Coverage Program will pay half the cost of a repair due to accidental damage or loss.  The cost is $20.00/$10.00* (*reduced for students who qualify for Free/Reduced Lunch Program) annually for each Student Computing Device and it covers the summer months if parents/students elect to keep the Student Computing Device over the summer.   

For students completing the Back-to-School online forms, payment must be submitted via School Payment Portal by September 1st in order to participate in this program.  After this date, a student’s device will not be eligible for the EPS Student Computing Device Coverage Program.  Students enrolling at EPS throughout the school year will have three weeks to submit payment in order to participate in the EPS Student Computing Device Coverage Program.  If a student withdraws from Elkhorn Public Schools and then re-enrolls later in the current school year, the coverage purchased at the student’s initial registration will be reinstated.  Premiums are non-refundable.

The program covers devices assigned to the student against accidental damage and/or loss. Damaged, lost, or stolen devices should be reported immediately according to the process described during orientation.  Elkhorn Public Schools will require that a police report be submitted in cases of theft.  Fraudulent reporting of theft will be turned over to the police for prosecution.  A student making a false report will also be subject to disciplinary action as outlined by the school code of conduct.

Total value of repairs or device replacement will be determined by EPS. The program will pay the amount of damage or replacement per the schedule of repairs listed on the district website. Damage as a result of gross negligence or purposeful damage will not be covered under the EPS Computing Device Coverage Program.  Parents/Guardians are responsible for 100% of damages due to gross negligence.  The district reserves the right to discontinue participation for students with unusually high numbers of claims. Such discontinuation will be effective 30 days after notification to the student and parent/guardian.

Training

Students will receive training to address care and usage of the Student Computing Device as well as usage of their Google (@epsne.org) account.  Digital Citizenship training will also be provided to address respectful, responsible, and ethical use of the internet and digital tools.

Taking Care of Your Student Computing Device

Students are responsible for the general care of the Student Computing Device which they have been issued by the school.  Student Computing Devices that are broken or fail to work properly must be taken to the school media center/technology office.  If a loaner Student Computing Device is needed, one will be issued to the student until their Student Computing Device can be repaired or replaced.

General Precautions

  • No food or drink should be next to your Student Computing Device.
  • Cords, cables, and removable storage devices must be inserted carefully into the Student Computing Device.
  • Students should never carry their Student Computing Device while the screen is open. 
  • Student Computing Devices should not be used or stored near pets.
  • Student Computing Devices should not be used with the power cord plugged in when the cord may be a tripping hazard.
  • Student Computing Devices must remain free of any writing, drawing, stickers, or labels.
  • Student Computing Devices, not being used for an extended period of time, should be shut down in order to conserve battery life.
  • Student Computing Devices should never be shoved into a locker or wedged into a book bag as this may break the screen.
  • Heavy objects should never be placed on top of Student Computing Devices.
  • Do not expose your Student Computing Device to extreme temperature or direct sunlight for extended periods of time. Extreme heat or cold may cause damage to the Student Computing Device.
  • Always bring your Student Computing Device to room temperature prior to turning it on.

Device Protection

  • Each elementary and middle school student will be issued a protective case for his/her Student Computing Device that should be used whenever the Student Computing Device is being transported or not in use.  Note:  High school students will NOT be issued a protective case for their Student Computing Device.
  • Although the cases are reinforced to help protect the Student Computing Devices, they are not guaranteed to prevent damage. It remains the student’s responsibility to care for and to protect his/her device.
  • Students and parents may decide to add additional protection for their Student Computing Devices by purchasing a hard protective case and/or sleeve from an outside source.

Carrying Student Computing Devices

  • Always transport Student Computing Devices with care.  Elementary and middle school students should always transport their devices in the EPS issued protective case. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action.
  • Never lift Student Computing Devices by the screen.
  • Never carry Student Computing Devices with the screen open.

Screen Care

  • The Student Computing Device screen can be damaged if subjected to heavy objects, rough treatment, some cleaning solvents, and other liquids. The screens are particularly sensitive to damage from excessive pressure.
  • Do not put pressure on the top of a Student Computing Device when it is closed.
  • Do not store a Student Computing Device with the screen open.
  • Do not place anything in the protective case that will press against the cover.
  • Make sure there is nothing on the keyboard before closing the lid (e.g. pens, pencils, or disks).
  • Only clean the screen with a soft, dry microfiber cloth or anti-static cloth.  Do not clean screens with products containing ammonia or alcohol.

Using Your Student Computing Device

Students are expected to bring a fully charged Student Computing Device to school every day and bring their Student Computing Devices to all classes unless specifically advised not to do so by their teacher.

If a Student Does not Bring His/Her Student Computing Device to School

  • Loaner devices may be available for students failing to bring their device to school.
  • A student borrowing a Student Computing Device will be responsible for any damage to or loss of the issued device.
  • School personnel will document the number of times a loaner is issued to each student for not having his/her own Student Computing Device at school and will send reports to administration for students who have excessive occurrences during the school year.
  • Staff will treat such occurrences as insubordination offenses, which may result in disciplinary action.
  • If a loaner is not turned in at the end of the day, an administrator will be contacted and will work on retrieving the loaner.

Charging Student Computing Devices

  • Student Computing Devices must be brought to school each day with a full charge.
  • Students should charge their Student Computing Devices at home every evening.

Personalizing the Student Computing Device

  • Student Computing Devices must remain free of any decorative writing, drawing, stickers, paint, tape, or labels that are not the property of the Elkhorn Public Schools.  Spot checks for compliance will be done by administration, teachers, and technology support staff at any time. 
  • Students may add appropriate music, photos, and videos to their Student Computing Device.  Personalized media are subject to inspection and must follow the Elkhorn Public Schools Internet Safety and Acceptable Use Policy. 

Sound

  • Sound should be muted at all times unless permission is obtained from a teacher.
  • Headphones may be used at the discretion of the teachers.

Printing

  • Students will be encouraged to digitally publish and share their work with their teachers and peers when appropriate.
  • Students may set up their home printers with the Google Cloud Print solution to print from their Student Computing Devices at home. Information about Google Cloud Print can be obtained here: http://www.google.com/cloudprint/learn/.

Logging into a Student Computing Device

  • Students will log into their Student Computing Devices using their school-issued Google (@epsne.org) account.
  • Students should never share their account passwords with others.  In the event of a compromised account the Elkhorn Public Schools Technology Department reserves the right to disable your account.
  • The student assigned to the Student Computing Device should be the only individual logging in to and using the device. 

Using Your Student Computing Device Outside of School

  • Students are encouraged to use their Student Computing Devices at home and other locations outside of school. 
  • A WiFi Internet connection will be necessary for the majority of Student Computing Device use; however, some applications can be used while not connected to the Internet. Students are bound by the Elkhorn Public Schools Acceptable Use Policy, Administrative Procedures, acceptable use agreement, and all other guidelines in this document wherever they use their Student Computing Devices. Please note that some internet providers DO NOT work with Student Computing Devices. 

Operating System and Security

Students may not use or install any operating system on their Student Computing Device other than the current version of ChromeOS that is supported and managed by the district.

No Expectation of Privacy

Students have no expectation of confidentiality or privacy with respect to any usage of a Student Computing Device, regardless of whether that use is for district-related or personal purposes, other than as specifically provided by law. The district may, without prior notice or consent, log, supervise, access, deny access to, view, monitor, and record use of the Student Computing Devices at any time for any reason related to the operation of the district. By using a Student Computing Device, students agree to such access, monitoring, and recording of their use.

Monitoring Software

Teachers, school administrators, and the technology department staff may use monitoring software that allows them to view the screens and activity on Student Computing Devices.

Updates

The Student Computing Device operating system, ChromeOS, updates itself automatically. Students do not need to manually update their Student Computing Devices.

Virus Protection

Student Computing Devices use the principle of “defense in depth” to provide multiple layers of protection against viruses and malware, including data encryption and verified boot.  There is no need for additional virus protection.

Content Filter

The district utilizes an Internet content filter that is in compliance with the federally mandated Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA). All Student Computing Devices are filtered for inappropriate content and pass through the District’s filtering appliance when connected to the Internet regardless of the physical location (e.g., school, home, public WiFi).  If a website is blocked in school, then it will be blocked out of school. If an educationally valuable site is blocked, students should contact school personnel, who in turn, will submit a helpdesk ticket to request the site be unblocked.  Elkhorn Public Schools makes every effort to filter web content through its comprehensive web filter; however, it is essential students and parents understand that students will be held accountable for using technology according to District policies.

Inspection

Students may be asked to provide their Student Computing Device for inspection.  The purpose for inspection will be to check for proper care and maintenance as well as inappropriate material being carried into the school. 

Software on Student Computing Devices

Originally Installed Software

Student Computing Device software is delivered via the Chrome Web Store and/or Google Play.  Some applications, such as Google Drive, are available for offline use. The software originally installed on the Student Computing Device must remain on the Student Computing Device in usable condition and be easily accessible at all times.

All Student Computing Devices are supplied with the latest stable build of Google Chrome Operating System (OS), and many other applications useful in an educational environment. The Chrome OS may install updates when the computer is idle or restarted.

Google Apps for Education Accounts

  • Student Computing Devices seamlessly integrate with the Google Apps for Education suite of productivity and collaboration tools. This suite includes Google Docs (word processing), Sheets (spreadsheets), Slides (presentations), Drawings, Forms, Sites, and Gmail within Elkhorn Public Schools.

Additional Apps and Extensions

Students are unable to install additional apps and extensions on their Student Computing Device other than what has been approved by the Elkhorn Public Schools.   

Repairing or Replacing Your Student Computing Device

Tech Support 

All Student Computing Devices in need of repair must be brought to the school media center/technology office as soon as possible.  

Accidental Damage or Loss Protection

As part of the Student Computing Device initiative at Elkhorn Public Schools, the school district is recommending participation in the EPS Student Computing Device Coverage Program.  For students completing the Back-to-School online forms, payment must be submitted via School Payment Portal by September 1st in order to participate in this program.  After this date, a student’s device will not be eligible for the EPS Student Computing Device Coverage Program.  Students enrolling at EPS throughout the school year will have three weeks to submit payment in order to participate in the EPS Student Computing Device Coverage Program.

This program is designed to protect students and families from full financial responsibility for accidental damage or loss.  Families enrolled in the EPS Student Computing Device Coverage Program will pay half the cost of a repair due to accidental damage or loss.  Damaged, lost, or stolen devices should be reported immediately according to the process described during orientation.  Elkhorn Public Schools will require that a police report be submitted in cases of theft.  Fraudulent reporting of theft will be turned over to the police for prosecution.  A student making a false report will also be subject to disciplinary action as outlined by the school code of conduct.

Parents/Students will be charged full replacement costs for any damages due to gross negligence or purposeful damage.  

Student Computing Device Technical Support

The school media center/technology office will be the first point of contact for repair of the Student Computing Devices.  Services provided include:

  • Password identification
  • User account support
  • Distribution of replacement Student Computing Devices
  • Hardware maintenance and repair
  • Operating System or software configuration support
  • Restoring Student Computing Device to factory default
  • System software updates

Student Computing Devices Being Repaired

  • Loaner Student Computing Devices may be issued to students when they leave their school-issued Student Computing Device for repair.
  • A student borrowing a Student Computing Device will be responsible for any damage to or loss of the loaned device.
  • Student Computing Devices on loan to students having their devices repaired may be taken home.
  • The media center/technology staff will contact students when their devices are repaired and available to be picked up.
  • In order to pick up their school-issued device, students must return the previously loaned device and pay any fees associated with the repairs.

Policies and Appropriate Use

Appropriate Uses and Digital Citizenship

School-issued devices should be used for educational purposes and students are to adhere to the Acceptable Use of Technology and all of its corresponding administrative procedures at all times.

While working in a digital and collaborative environment, students should always conduct themselves as good digital citizens by adhering to the following:

  1. Respect Yourself. I will show respect for myself through my actions. I will select online names that are appropriate. I will use caution with the information, images, and other media that I post online. I will carefully consider what personal information about my life, experiences, or relationships I post. I will not be obscene. I will act with integrity. 
  2. Protect Yourself. I will ensure that the information, images, and materials I post online will not put me at risk. I will not publish my personal details, contact details, or a schedule of my activities. I will report any attacks or inappropriate behavior directed at me while online. I will protect passwords, accounts, and resources.
  3. Respect Others. I will show respect to others. I will not use electronic mediums to antagonize, bully, harass, or stalk people. I will show respect for other people in my choice of websites: I will not visit sites that are degrading to others, pornographic, racist, or inappropriate.
  4. Protect Others. I will protect others by reporting abuse and not forwarding inappropriate materials or communications. I will avoid unacceptable materials and conversations. 
  5. Respect Intellectual Property. I will request permission to use copyrighted or otherwise protected materials. I will suitably cite all use of websites, books, media, etc. I will acknowledge all primary sources. I will validate information. I will use and abide by the fair use rules.
  6. Protect Intellectual Property. I will request to use the software and media others produce. I will purchase, license, and register all software or use available free and open source alternatives rather than pirating software. I will purchase my music and media and refrain from distributing these in a manner that violates their licenses.

Elkhorn Public Schools Internet Safety and Acceptable Use Policy

Elkhorn Public Schools Internet Access is to be used only for classroom related activities. This policy applies when using either school equipment or personal equipment on the district network.  The administration reserves the right to refuse access to the Internet by Elkhorn Public Schools to anyone when it deems it necessary in the public interest.

Compliance with the Law and Use of Computers/Internet

Students, using the Internet, will follow all laws, policies, and rules governing computers. This includes (but is not limited to) copyright laws, software publisher’s rights, license agreements, acts of terrorism, assault, threats, and student right of privacy.

Students at Elkhorn Public Schools shall receive instruction in Internet Safety.  This curriculum will include material related to appropriate “Access to Internet by Minors”, appropriate use of social networking sites, cyber-bullying, and other topics as are relevant in encouraging digital citizenship.  

Access to the Internet by Minors (students under the age of 18) or Adults (over the age of 18)

Minors or adults shall:

  1. Not access material that is obscene, pornographic, harmful to minors, or otherwise inappropriate for education.
  2. Not use Elkhorn Public Schools technology or Internet resources to engage in hacking or attempts to otherwise compromise any computer or network system’s security.
  3. Not engage in any illegal activities on the Internet.
  4. Only use electronic mail, chat rooms, social networking sites, and other forms of direct electronic communications for the purposes related to education within the context of a Elkhorn Public Schools-related assignment or activity.
  5. Not attempt to override or bypass any protection measure that has been put in place by Elkhorn Public Schools to block and/or filter access to Internet Sites that are not in accordance with policies of Elkhorn Public Schools.
  6. Minors shall not disclose personal identification information on the Internet.

Agreement Violations

Any violation of this agreement may result in the loss of access to the Internet by the student/adult involved. Additional disciplinary action may be determined in accordance with existing policies of the Elkhorn Public Schools, including applicable State and Federal laws.

Students shall be granted permission to access the Internet under the direction of a teacher upon receipt of the signed Student Handbook form.

Acceptable Use

  • We believe that access to the Internet is an important educational resource for our students.
  • We understand that although there are many valuable educational resources available, there are also unacceptable and offensive materials available on the Internet.
  • We require efficient, ethical, courteous and legal utilization of the equipment, computers, and network resources.
    • As a safety precaution, full names or addresses are not to be revealed online.
    • Computer and network resources have been provided for educational purposes; game-playing and commercial uses are prohibited.
    • Sharing of individual accounts is prohibited.
    • Electronic mail (email) and other computer use or storage is not guaranteed to be private or confidential.  Network or other computer use or storage areas are and will be treated as school property.  Computers, files and communications may be accessed and reviewed by district personnel.
    • Chain letters and inter-relay chat are misuses of the system.
    • Vandalism or “hacking” of any kind is prohibited.
    • The security of the system and the rights of other users are to be respected at all times.
  • Students who knowingly violate the terms of the agreement will be dealt with according to the discipline policies of the individual school building and Elkhorn Public Schools and/or civil authorities.
    • Such activities may result in termination of their account/access and/or expulsion from school and/or legal prosecution.
  • Any problems which arise from the use of an account are the liability or responsibility of the user.  By using the computers or network system, participants agree to indemnify and hold Elkhorn Public Schools harmless from any claims or damages arising from such use.  Elkhorn Public Schools makes no warranties for the information or the services provided. 

Privacy and Safety

  • Do not go into any chat rooms other than those set up by your teacher or mandated in other distance education courses.
  • Do not open, use, or change computer files that do not belong to you.
  • Do not reveal your full name, phone number, home address, social security number, credit card numbers, passwords, or passwords of other people.
  • Remember that network storage is not guaranteed to be private or confidential.  District Administration reserves the right to inspect your files at any time and will take the necessary steps if files are in violation of the district’s Acceptable Use Policy.
  • Elkhorn Public Schools makes every effort to filter web content through its comprehensive web filter; however, it is essential students and parents understand that students will be held accountable for using technology according to District policies.
  • If you inadvertently access a website that contains obscene, pornographic, or otherwise offensive material, notify a teacher or the principal immediately so that such sites can be blocked from further access.  This is not merely a request.  It is a responsibility.

Legal Propriety

  • All students must comply with trademark and copyright laws and all license agreements.  Ignorance of the law is not immunity. 
  • Plagiarism is a violation of the Elkhorn Public Schools code of conduct.  Give credit to all sources used, whether quoted or summarized.  This includes all forms of media on the Internet, such as graphics, movies, music, and text.

Email

  • Students in need of email for academic reasons will only be allowed email access through an address assigned by the district.  This email access will be through a Google Gmail system managed by the Elkhorn Public Schools.  This email system is monitored by the Elkhorn Public Schools Technology Department and all messages sent or received through this system are archived and subject to filtering of inappropriate content.
  • Do not transmit language/material that is profane, obscene, abusive, or offensive to others.
  • Do not send mass emails, chain letters, or spam.
  • Email is subject to inspection at any time by school administration.

Discipline Consequences

  • The student to whom a system account and/or computer hardware is issued will be responsible at all times for its appropriate use.  Non-compliance with the policies of the Student Computing Device Handbook or the Elkhorn Public School’s Internet Safety and Acceptable Use Policy (507.13) will result in disciplinary action as outlined by the student code of conduct and/or other school policies for the user unless there is proof that another is responsible.
  • Electronic mail, network usage, and all stored files shall not be considered confidential and may be monitored at any time by the Elkhorn Public Schools Technology Department to ensure appropriate use.  The Elkhorn Public Schools cooperates fully with local, state, and federal officials in any investigation concerning or relating to violations of computer crime laws.  

Summer Student Computing Device Use

Elkhorn Public School students returning to the district the next school year will retain their Student Computing Device and all issued peripherals during the summer unless parents elect to return their student’s device for the summer.  By keeping a Student Computing Device during the summer months, parents and students understand that the use of the Student Computing Device falls under the Elkhorn Public Schools Internet Safety and Acceptable Use Policy.  Additionally, parents and students who have enrolled in the EPS Student Computing Device Coverage Program will be covered during the summer months.  Parents and students further understand that if a student transfers out of the Elkhorn Public Schools, they are responsible for returning their Student Computing Device to Elkhorn Public Schools immediately. Failure to return the Student Computing Device will result in criminal charges being filed for stolen property. 

STUDENT COMPUTING DEVICE USAGE HANDBOOK

RECEIPT OF NOTIFICATION AND UNDERSTANDING 

(Note: Students and parents can now fill out this form online.)

The Elkhorn Public Schools Student Acceptable Use Agreement (AUA) is on the next page of this document for your review. Your signature on this document states that you have read, understand, and agree to abide by the compliance requirements of Elkhorn Public Schools regarding the use of computers and the Internet in the Elkhorn Public Schools. 

Additionally, as part of the Student Computing Device initiative at Elkhorn Public Schools, the school district is recommending the purchase of an Equipment Repair and Replacement Program prior to the deployment of the Student Computing Device to your child. Under this agreement, the Student Computing Devices are protected against accidental damage if participating in the EPS Student Computing Device Coverage Program. Families enrolled in the EPS Student Computing Device Coverage Program will pay half the cost of a repair due to accidental damage or loss.  The Elkhorn Public Schools will require that a police report be submitted in cases of theft. Fraudulent reporting of theft will be turned over to the police for prosecution. A student making a false report will also be subject to disciplinary action as outlined by the school code of conduct.


This additional cost does not cover for loss of the Student Computing Device and/or its accessories, cosmetic damage, or damages caused by intentional misuse and abuse. Elkhorn Public Schools will assess the Student Computing Device loss/damage and repair or replace the device if the loss/damage is determined to be accidental and within the protection guidelines. Parents/Students will be charged for full replacement cost of a device that has been lost or damaged due to intentional misuse or abuse.

Please check one of the following options:  

SELECTION DESCRIPTION OF OPTION
Option 1:  I accept and will abide by the Elkhorn Public Schools Student Computing Device Usage Handbook. Additionally, I would like to participate in the optional EPS Student Computing Device Coverage Program for the amount of $20.
Option 2:  I accept and will abide by the Elkhorn Public Schools Student Computing Device Usage Handbook. I DO NOT wish to participate in the optional EPS Student Computing Device Coverage Program and understand that I am responsible for 100% of all damages.
Option 3:  I accept and will abide by the Elkhorn Public Schools Student Computing Device Usage Handbook. I DO NOT wish to have my child issued a Student Computing Device to take home. (PLEASE NOTE: If you choose this option, students will be assigned a Student Computing Device for daily use at school and may be held responsible for 100% of damages as a result of gross negligence or purposeful damage).  
If Option 3 above is chosen, parents/guardians may still elect to enroll in the EPS Student Computing Device Coverage Program. 

⬜  While I do not wish to have my child issued a Student Computing Device to take home, I would like to participate in the optional EPS Student Computing Device Coverage Program for the amount of $20.

 

_______________________________________________________  _____________

Print Full Student Name       Grade

________________________________________________________  ________________________

Student Signature (REQUIRED)       Date

_______________________________________________________ ________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature (REQUIRED)       Date

EPS Acceptable Use Agreement (AUA)

Elkhorn Public Schools Internet Access is to be used only for classroom related activities.  This agreement applies when using either school equipment or personal equipment on the district network.

This Acceptable Use Agreement (AUA) outlines the appropriate use of EPS’s technology resources and services during and after school hours. By signing this form, students are indicating that they understand and agree to abide by the guidelines written below. 

EPS network, technology resources and Internet access are school resources and use of them is considered a privilege. Therefore, violation of this AUA will result in the loss of this privilege and/or other appropriate discipline actions according to division-level policies. These actions may include written warnings, withdrawal of access privileges, and in extreme cases, suspension, expulsion or termination of privileges.

Compliance with Law and Use of Computers/Internet

Users of Elkhorn Public Schools technology will follow all laws, policies, and rules governing computers.  This includes (but is not limited to) copyright laws, software publisher’s rights, license agreements, acts of terrorism, assault, threats, and student right of privacy.

Safety and Security:

  • I will not attempt to access material that is obscene, pornographic, harmful to others, or otherwise inappropriate for education. 
  • I understand that passwords are private and should not be shared with others. I will not allow others to use my account name or password, or try to use that of others. 
  • I will not attempt to engage in hacking or attempts to bypass security settings or interfere with the operation of the EPS network in any way.
  • I will use EPS network and technology resources productively and responsibly for school-related purposes.
  • I will maintain the setup of EPS devices as they were when I received them. 
  • I will record or share image or audio files only when I have obtained permission from my teacher, media specialist or administrator. I will not use cameras in restrooms, locker rooms, or dressing rooms, regardless of intent. 
  • I will not use EPS network and technology resources to access, display, create or communicate material that is illegal, obscene, destructive, harassing, threatening, hateful or otherwise offensive. I am responsible for not pursuing or sending material that could be considered objectionable or harmful to myself or others. 
  • I will be responsible for all of my digital files, including backing up files not already stored in the cloud.

Digital Citizenship 

  • I will use technology in such a way that does not disrupt the educational environment. This includes setting all of my devices on “mute” or “vibrate” unless permission is obtained from the teacher, media specialist or administrator. 
  • I will be thoughtful and polite and use appropriate language in my digital communication, as determined by school administrators. 
  • I will follow appropriate guidelines when publishing work online (e.g. to a website, blog, wiki, discussion board, podcasting or video server). 
  • I will respect the intellectual property rights of others. I will obey copyright guidelines and avoid plagiarizing others’ work or ideas. 
  • I understand that I am an ambassador for the school/District in all of my online activities, which should not reflect negatively on my school/District. I will not post personal or embarrassing information about other students, employees, members of the EPS community or myself. 

Expectations of Privacy

The computer system, including email and Internet, is the property of the Elkhorn Public School District. EPS relies on a combination of self-hosted, externally hosted, and cloud-based services. These services are primarily intended for educational and business use and are subject to monitoring at any time. Although EPS does not routinely check communications or files, it has the right to review, audit, and disclose all matters sent over or stored on the system. As a result, members of the EPS community should recognize that there is no reasonable expectation of privacy when using the computer system. 

Respecting and Protecting Intellectual Properties

The increasing use of technology and multimedia at EPS presents a wonderful opportunity for students and teachers to share what they do with others at EPS. The presentations, photos, video and audio of classes, field trips and school events are often shared electronically through web-based resources. Sometimes, students and parents buy or receive copies of school events on media, such as CDs or DVDs. The instinct to share achievements is understandable, but these files are for private use only. Any sharing of these materials within the EPS Google domain is prohibited.

Agreement Violations

Any violation of the agreement may result in the loss of access to the Internet by the student/adult involved.  Additional disciplinary action may be determined in accordance with existing policies of the Elkhorn Public Schools, including applicable State and Federal laws.

Users of Elkhorn Public Schools technology shall be granted permission to access the Internet upon receipt of the signed Acceptable Use Agreement Signature Form available from your building administrator or media specialist.

Details and definitions of the full Elkhorn Public Schools Internet Safety and Acceptable Use Policy (507.13) can be reviewed on the Elkhorn Public Schools webpage.