Internet Permission Letter

Madison Metropolitan School District
Revised September, 2001

TO: Parents and Students
FROM: [School Name] Principal
SUBJECT: Student Access to the Internet

The Madison Metropolitan School District is connected to the Internet.

The Internet represents a unique opportunity for students to explore information that enhances learning. The Internet also has some resources that are not appropriate for young people. We believe benefits outweigh negatives but we are aware that there are some resources we would not want our students to investigate, such as pornography. To reduce the risk of students accessing inappropriate Internet sites, we use an Internet site filtering system. The school district is committed to helping students use the Internet responsibly but it is not possible to monitor student usage at all times.

In an effort to facilitate the appropriate use of the Internet for student research, we have many direct links to places such as the White House, the World Health Organization, Library of Congress, United Nations, virtual art museums and libraries and a host of other sources. Software we use to access resources on the World Wide Web allows Internet users to simply "point and click" on listed resources. The school district also uses Eudora allowing students to send and receive Internet Email. Students can communicate with other students, teachers, scientists, writers and other educators throughout the country and world.

Students will have opportunities to connect with the Internet in classrooms, computer labs, and libraries under the supervision of teachers. Students will be given instruction in the appropriate use of technology and they will be directed toward resources appropriate to curriculum goals.

To ensure the responsible use of the Internet, all students who use the Internet are required to adhere to district policies, please see the District Web site at http://www.madison.k12.wi.us/webpub/studpol.htm or call your child's school for a copy. Inappropriate use may result in the loss of a student's privilege to use the Internet as well as subject him or her to other discipline.

We encourage parents/guardians and students to discuss the content of this letter and the attached policies. We hope students will share with their parents/guardians some of the exciting Internet projects in which they are engaged during the school year.

By sending this correspondence to you, the District is providing you with information regarding the Internet and notifying you that unless you object, your child will be able to access the Internet. If you object to your child using the Internet you must fill out the information below and return this form to:

________________________________________ by ____________.

Please contact the school office if you would like further information.

OBJECTION TO THE USE OF THE INTERNET

This objection applies to the [current] school year, and must be specifically renewed at the beginning of each school year.

Student's Name (please print) ____________________________________________

I object to __________________________________________ using the Internet during the [current] school year.

Parent's (or Legal Guardian's) signature_____________________________________

Date ________________

MMSD Internet Policies & Guidelines