Students are responsible for good behavior on school computer networks, just as they are in a classroom or a school hallway. Communications on the network are often public in nature. General school rules for behavior and communications apply. (Policy 5150)
The network is provided for students to conduct research and communicate with others. Access to network services is provided to students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner. Parent permission is required for minors. Access is a privilege, not a right. Access entails responsibility.
Individual users of the district computer networks are responsible for their behavior and communications over those networks. It is presumed that users will comply with district standards and will honor the agreements they have signed.
Network storage areas may be treated like school lockers. Network administrators may review files and communications to maintain system integrity and ensure that students are using the system responsibly. Users should not expect that files stored on district servers will always be private.
During school, teachers of younger students will guide them in accessing appropriate materials. Outside of school, families must bear responsibility for such guidance--as they also must with information sources such as television, telephones, movies, radio, and other potentially offensive media.
As per the state bullying policy, cyber-bullying means bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication…which may include but is not limited to:
a. The creation of a webpage or blog in which the creator assumes the identity of another person;
b. The knowing impersonation of another person as the author of posted content or messages; or
c. The distribution by electronic means of a communication to more than one person or the posting of materials on an electronic medium that may be accessed by one or more persons…resulting in any of the conditions enumerated in the clauses of the definition of bullying as per the state bullying policy.
Abusive or humiliating language or demeanor will not be accepted.
The following actions are not permitted and may result in disciplinary action: (this list is not intended to be all inclusive)
Sending or accessing offensive messages or pictures.
Using obscene language.
Harassing, insulting, impersonating and/or attacking others.
Damaging computers, computer systems, or computer networks.
Violating copyright laws.
Using passwords of others.
Trespassing in others' folders or files.
Intentionally wasting resources.
Employing the network for commercial purposes.
Downloading or copying files/programs of students, faculty or staff.
Email accounts are provided to PHS students. School related information will be communicated via email messages. Students are encouraged to use this account to communicate for educational purposes. (Policy 5151)
Students at PHS who have been provided with a device with a protective cover are not allowed to remove it, nor are they allowed to put stickers on it. If the protective covers are removed, the device will not be covered by warranty. Damaged protective covers are also not covered by warranty.
Students are not allowed to bring in personal devices, and will not be permitted to use visitor wifi. Students are provided with a cloud storage area (Google Drive) where they may store documents on the internet. (Policy 5152) Students must move the documents from the network folder and the Portsmouth Google Drive prior to withdrawal or graduation. PHS does not maintain documents for students who are inactive.
Students are also responsible for respecting the rights of others when using videography and/or photography as outlined in the PSD Appropriate Use Policy (Policy IJNDC). It is the expectation of the Portsmouth High School administration that the following provisions of the Appropriate Use policy are adhered to at all times:
Devices capable of recording audio/visual and/or photo may not be used in locker rooms, changing rooms, restrooms or any other place where students or employees have a reasonable expectation of privacy.
Teachers, staff, or administrators must announce their intent to record or take a video or photo within the classroom prior to doing so. Students who have elected not to disclose “directory information” under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) or who have the current year’s video/photo/media opt-out form on file at the building level must not be included in these recordings or images.
Recording of classes or other school activities may only occur with the express permission of the faculty member teaching the class, administrator, or staff member conducting the activity. When granted permission to record class lectures or other school activities, a student may use such recordings solely for personal educational purposes. Staff members who approve such recordings are responsible for ensuring that FERPA protected student information is not disclosed. Unauthorized audio or video recordings of teachers, administrators or other staff members, or unauthorized dissemination of such recordings in or through any medium, without the staff member’s permission is prohibited and may result in disciplinary action.