Central York board reviews updated acceptable-use policy in first reading

On Oct. 20, 2025, the Central York School District Board of Directors held a first reading of Policy 8.15, Acceptable Use of Computers, Network Resources and Internet Access, reviewing updates that add references to artificial intelligence, strengthen cybersecurity prohibitions and add accessibility requirements.

Director Walker, chair of the Policy Committee, told the board the policy was last substantially updated in 2014 and needed changes to reflect current technology and practices. "One of the provisions we're putting in at the end of this policy is one that will compel the board to review this at least every two years for possible changes," Walker said.

The revisions Walker outlined include new or clarified definitions for "computer" and for terms tied to protections for minors; explicit references to artificial intelligence in the definitions; expanded language on vandalism and malware (including "cracking, packet sniffers, spoofing attacks, root kits"); clarified copyright language to recognize student ownership of academic or creative works and the district's ability to seek a license to display student work for educational or promotional purposes; and new accessibility requirements such as alternative text and captions for images so content is usable with screen readers.

Board members asked for clarifications about the scope and enforcement of the policy. Dr. Hartman, a board director, asked whether the policy applies only on district property or also when district accounts and devices are used off campus. "My understanding is that it would cover those uses as well," Walker said, and district technology staff confirmed that traffic from district-managed devices filters back through the district system even when used on home networks.

Mr. Veil, identified in the meeting transcript as a technology staff member, described technical limits and controls: district-managed devices filter traffic back through district filters even when off campus; the district's mobile device management cannot completely prevent students from downloading apps or media, though the district can block App Store access for some younger age groups but not for high school students; and typical enforcement occurs when devices are serviced for low memory or other issues and staff remove nonapproved apps and media.

Board members also discussed how the policy treats potentially objectionable curricular material. Trustees and administrators said intent and context will factor into enforcement decisions: instructional uses that include difficult language or content would be treated differently than a student intentionally seeking inappropriate material. The policy's consequences section also drew a procedural question about wording that distinguishes impacts on district equipment versus impacts on users; Walker said the language was drafted to reflect that difference and could be further clarified.

This review was a first reading; trustees did not adopt the policy at the meeting. Walker said Policy 8.15 and three related policies (8.28 Fraud, 9.16 Volunteer and 3.26 Complaint Process) will be brought back for final adoption on Nov. 3, 2025.