Policy Details Page

Policy 6973
Management Support

---

PURPOSE

The purpose of this Acceptable Use Policy for Digital Resources is to ensure the responsible, ethical, and secure utilization of digital resources within the District. This policy aims to provide clear guidelines and expectations to all individuals with access to these resources, fostering a safe and productive digital environment that respects privacy, protects data integrity, and promotes responsible usage practices. By establishing this policy, we seek to safeguard our digital assets, maintain compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and cultivate a culture of respect, professionalism, and integrity in all digital interactions.

The District encourages information dissemination, collaboration, innovation and experimentation through the ethical use of technology. Using digital resources is integral in supporting business needs, providing 21^st-centruy communication solutions to staff and students, extending student learning opportunities and meeting District goals. The District will encourage safeguards to protect employees, partners and students in the digital environment.  Staff and students should only use district-approved technology, devices, software, equipment and communication tools solely for educational or business purposes.

Staff and students must adhere to federal and state laws and District policies on using hardware, software, telecommunications systems, and digital data, including policies governing harassment, intimidation, and bullying, anti-racism, discrimination, and safety and civility in schools.   Staff should also maintain professional staff/student boundaries while using digital communications.

This policy and its accompanying regulation establish the use of all District internet/intranet/extranet-related systems, including but not limited to computer equipment, software, operating systems, information storage systems, network accounts, telephones, fax machines, voice mail, electronic mail, video conferencing systems, and other digital tools. 

The Superintendent/designee shall develop appropriate guidelines for the use of Tacoma Public Schools’ digital resources.

Cross References:

Policy 1600 – Anti-Racism 
Policy 2020 – Curriculum Development and Adoption of Instructional Materials
Policy 2025 – Copyright Compliance
Policy 3207 – Prohibition of Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying
Policy 3241 – Student Conduct/Discipline
Policy 5010 – Employee Conduct Rules 
Policy 5251 – Ethics 
Policy 5243 – Maintaining Professional Staff/Student Boundaries
Policy 5280 – Separation of Employment and Disciplinary Actions
Policy 6250 – Use of District-Owned Equipment and Materials

Legal Reference:

18 USC 2510-2523 Electronic Communications Privacy Act of 1986

---

Adoption Date: 7/27/00
Revised Date: 4/23/2020, 10/12/2023