The Shelby County Schools Board of Education recognizes that electronic information resources have transformed the ways that information may be accessed and communicated. The Board generally supports access by students to rich information resources and believes it incumbent upon students to use this privilege in an appropriate and responsible manner. The Board encourages the development of appropriate skills to analyze and evaluate such resources.

Electronic information research skills have become a necessary part of the educational process. The Board expects that faculty will blend thoughtful use of the Internet throughout the curriculum and will provide guidance and instruction to students in its use. As much as possible, access from school to Internet resources should be structured in ways which point students to those sources suited to learning objectives. While students will be able to move independently through resources, they shall be provided with guidelines defining acceptable use. All students shall participate in an Internet safety instruction program which shall be integrated into the district's instructional program in grades K-12. Schools will use existing avenues of communication to raise awareness and inform parents about Internet safety. The district shall take measures designed to protect students from child pornography and obscenity as well as other materials that are harmful to minors pursuant to 47 U.S.C. §§ 6801, 6777, 9134; 47 U.S.C. § 254 and the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA).

Students utilizing school-provided Internet access are responsible for appropriate behavior on-line just as they are in a classroom or other area of the school. Communications on the network are often public in nature. General school rules for behavior and communications apply in using the networked communications system. The network is provided for students and staff to conduct research, explore the world, and communicate with each other. Access to network services will be provided to students who agree to act in a responsible manner.

Use of the system's electronic resources will be permitted upon submission of agreement forms by students and parents. Violations of the terms and conditions stated in the agreement may result in disciplinary action up to and including expulsion for students.

The Board authorizes the Superintendent to develop and implement procedures to provide guidance for students in the appropriate and ethical use of telecommunication networks such as the Internet.