The Polk-Hordville (Neb.) school district developed the Acceptable Internet Use Policy excerpted below, through which students and a parent commit to responsible use of the Internet and e-mail. Keith Leckron, middle and high school principal in the rural district, took advantage of the Internet's resources when he formulated the policy in 1996. He searched through policies posted on-line by other districts and used a cut-and-paste method to flesh out the following clear and comprehensive policy for his district.
    "We debated using a filtering system," says Leckron, "but felt that the responsibility of Internet use lies with the students, rather than a system that would block sites they might need for research. The parent signature is another way to get parents involved in their child's education." (see also Take a Stand Against Hate Literature, Music, Web sites and E-Mail..)

DISTRICT INTERNET AND E-MAIL REGULATIONS
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. These are outlined in the student handbook.

The network is provided for students to conduct research and communicate with others. Access to network services is given to students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner. Parent permission is required. Access is a privilege - not a right. Access entails responsibility.

Network storage areas may be treated like school lockers. Network administrators may review files and communications to maintain system integrity and ensure that users are using the system responsibly.

As outlined in Board policy and procedures on students' rights and responsibilities, copies of which are available in school offices, the following are not permitted:
    • Sending or displaying hateful or pornographic messages or pictures
    • Using obscene language or profanity
    • Harassing, insulting or attacking others
    • Engaging in promoting violence
    • Engaging in racial, gender or other slurs
    • Receiving or transmitting information pertaining to dangerous
       instrumentalities such as bombs, automatic weapons, or other illicit
       firearms, weaponry, or explosive devices
    • Damaging computers, computer systems or computer networks
    • Violating copyright laws
    • Using others' passwords
    • Trespassing in others' folders, work or files
    • Intentionally wasting limited resources
    • Employing the network for commercial purposes
    • Transmitting personal information without written parental consent
    • Accessing areas considered as borderline without written parental
       consent
Violations may result in a loss of access as well as other disciplinary or legal action.