Acceptable Use of Computers

The CPS network and computer facilities are intended to enrich the academic experience of students and staff. These resources should be viewed as extensions of CPS's physical environment and their use entails the same privileges, obligations, and responsibilities that come with using any of the school's facilities. Network and computer facilities are limited community resources, and, above all, it is important that every community member be considerate of that fact.

CPS, through its network, provides access to other computer systems around the world. While this communication tool provides fantastic potential for education, students and parents are advised that some systems may contain defamatory, abusive, obscene, profane, sexually oriented, threatening, racially offensive, or illegal material. Moreover, students could have the potential to both initiate and respond to contact with the creators of that material. While we address such misuses and abuses at school, we strongly recommend that parents discuss appropriate computer usage with their student(s). Students who knowingly bring such materials into the school environment will be dealt with according to the school's discipline policies (see “Computer Use” in the Student Handbook.)

Upon the recommendation of a student's advisor or a member of the administration, the school reserves the right to inspect personal computer files, for content that violates network rules or school policy. Students will be informed of such inspections if they occur.

All software residing on school computers and file servers are the property of CPS and may not be copied, moved, altered, or used outside school under any circumstances without the written permission of the Director of Technology.

In addition to the above, students are expected to follow certain guidelines regarding the use of school computers:

Students will:

• Use appropriate and respectful language at all times in electronic communication.
• Respect the privacy of others’ network folders, files, passwords, and communications.
• Adhere to all laws and principles concerning the use and distribution of copyrighted materials, including software and music.
• Read the posted information in the computer lab for updated information.
• Immediately report computer viruses to a member of the Technology staff.
• Seek permission from the Director of Technology before installing or using personal software on CPS computers.
• Seek permission from the Director of Technology before using one’s own computer or laptop on the CPS network.

Students will not*:

• Subscribe to listservs and newsgroups because of the high volume of mail they generate.
• Send attachments greater than 1 MB over email.
• Play computer games.
• Download, or store on the server, game programs, music, and movie files. Internet bandwidth and server storage spaces are reserved for files of academic relevance.
• Modify system files or the configuration of computers.
• Eat or drink while using any computer on campus.

*Exceptions may be made with the written permission of the Director of Technology.

Preston Tucker
Director of Technology