Technology Use Statement of Ethics

 Student Access

The Dalton School computer network puts enormous power at the fingertips of all members of this community - students, faculty, staff, and family. Inherent in the use of this power, however, is the understanding that it rests on the school's stated values and therefore requires its users to accept the same ethical responsibilities that govern other spheres of school life. The school assumes that individual users will be responsible for their behavior and communication over the network and that they will comply with school standards. The use of the network, like all other aspects of school life, is built on trust.

The general rules, values, and responsibilities found in the Student Handbooks provide a sound basis for good decision making with regard to technology. In brief, users must respect the personal and material rights of others. Within reason, freedom of speech and access to information will be honored, yet users should be aware that the school may review files and other communications to maintain system integrity and to ensure that users are using the system responsibly. Therefore, users should not expect that files stored on either network servers or local hard drives will always be private. The network is provided for students to conduct research and communicate with others. Access to it is a privilege, not a right.

Guidelines for Use of Internet and Online Services

In providing links to any off-campus network, the school is required to follow that carrier's acceptable use policy in addition to our own. Those granted either full or supervised use of the Internet through a Dalton connection must remember that they become online representatives of the school when they exercise this privilege. Violations of the stated rules and guidelines in such situations reflect not only on the individual user but also on the school. Moreover, since a system as vast as the Internet inevitably includes some unethical or even dangerous users, Dalton users are urged not to give out personal information to other users on bulletin boards, chat boards, or other systems.

Consequences for Violating these Rules and Guidelines

Violations of these general rules and guidelines, and more specific posted rules, should be reported to the division director and may result in suspension of computer and network privileges or other disciplinary actions as described in the Student Handbook.

The following activities represent a few examples of unacceptable behavior with respect to The Dalton School computer network and the use of the Internet and other online services:

Sending or displaying offensive messages or pictures

Using obscene language
Harassing, insulting, or attacking others
Intentionally damaging computers, systems, or networks
Attempting to subvert network security or bypass set restrictions
Using or installing software not provided by the school
Violating copyright laws
Using another's password or giving yours to someone else
Trespassing in another's folders, work, or files
Employing the network for anything other than legitimate learning purposes
Intentionally wasting resources