2023-2024 TECHNOLOGY CONTRACT

The smooth operation of St. Francis of Assisi’s technology program relies to a great degree upon the proper conduct of the students who must adhere to the following strict guidelines. These guidelines are provided so that you are aware of the responsibilities you are about to assume. In general, these responsibilities require efficient, ethical and legal utilization of the technology resources.  Refer to our St. Francis of Assisi Safe Internet Use Policy for important information. 

Technology Definition -The phrase “technology system” includes, but is not limited to, the following: Internet, computers, software files, all computer-related equipment, (i.e. keyboards, mice, monitors, input devices, printers, cameras, scanners, smart phones, copiers) and other hardware access through the St. Francis of Assisi network. 

Acceptable Use -The purpose of the technology system network at St. Francis of Assisi School is to support education and research consistent with our educational objectives. The following guidelines must be followed: 

1. Transmission of any material in violation of any U.S. or state regulation is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, material protected by trade secret, copyrighted material, or threatening, pornographic, or obscene material. 

2. Use for commercial activities is generally not acceptable. 

3. Use for product advertisement or political lobbying is prohibited. 

4. The technology system at St. Francis of Assisi School should be used as a tool to enhance the learning experience. Use of any components for games, chatting, and/or sending e-mail is prohibited unless otherwise directed by a teacher. This is considered a class disruption and will be handled accordingly. 

5. Students must respect the technology system setup as established by the teachers and must not adjust computer formats without permission. Students will not access the computer control panels or share their passwords. Passwords may be changed only with teacher permission. 

6. Unauthorized installation, deletion, use, storage, or distribution of copyrighted and non-copyrighted software is strictly prohibited. 

7. Students are liable for any financial consequences resulting from inappropriate or unauthorized use of, or damage to, the technology equipment. 

Privileges – The use of the technology system is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use could result in the cancellation of that privilege. The system administrators, in conjunction with the school administration and faculty, will deem what is inappropriate use and their decision is final.

Network Etiquette – Students are expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette. These, as well as the behavior standards outlined in the Family Handbook (linked), include the following:

1. Be polite. Do not be abusive in communications to others. Do not swear, use vulgarities or any other inappropriate language. Abusive messages to or about classmates and/or school staff will not be tolerated. Personal threats or harassment will not be permitted. 

2. Do not reveal personal information about yourself or others. These items include: names, school name, school or home addresses, phone numbers, photographs, e-mail addresses, etc.

3. Do not repost personal communication without the author’s prior consent. 

General Disclaimer 

1. 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. St. Francis of Assisi School takes precautions to restrict access to controversial materials. This includes the use of a web content filter that manages all web traffic from student to the internet while the student is at the school. This system is actively managed and updated. However, on a global network it is impossible to control all materials and an industrious user may discover how to access controversial material. When such a situation arises, the school will block that particular site from being viewed by the students.

2. In spite of firewalls, filters, and other protective technologies, St. Francis of Assisi School does not have control of Internet content and understands that students may read material that is controversial or offensive. St. Francis of Assisi School is released from any liability or damages that may result from a student’s inappropriate, inadvertent, or unauthorized use of the Internet. 

3. Electronic communication is not guaranteed to be private. People who operate the system do have access to all communications and files. The administration has the right to review/view any electronic information. Communications, images, or documents relating to illegal or inappropriate activities may be reported to the school, city, state, or federal authorities. Communications may not be encrypted so as to avoid security review. 

We ask that this agreement be signed and submitted by Monday, September 11, 2023.

Please complete ONE FORM PER FAMILY.

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By signing this Technology Contract below, I acknowledge I have read this agreement in its entirety, discussed it with our child(ren), and accept responsibility to support all school rules, regulations and policies, both those contained in this Technology Use agreement and those that are developed and exist in the day-to-day operation of the school.