Policy

(Aligned to the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) [Pub. L. No 106-554 and 47 USC 254(h)])

I. Purpose

The Eastern North Carolina School for the Deaf (ENCSD) is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and secure online environment for all students. This policy establishes guidelines for internet safety, ethical digital behavior, and measures to prevent and respond to cyberbullying and harassment in compliance with federal and state laws, including G.S. § 115C-102.10 and the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA).

II. Definitions

• Cyberbullying: The use of electronic communication to harass, intimidate, or harm an individual.
• Inappropriate Material: Content that is obscene, depicts child pornography, or is harmful to minors as defined by the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA).
• Unauthorized Access: Any attempt to access restricted data, systems, or networks without permission.
• Deepfakes: Digitally altered media, including images, audio, and videos, that manipulate reality in a misleading or deceptive manner, often using artificial intelligence.
• Social Media Platform: Any platform or application that allows users to create and share content publicly or privately.

III. Policy Requirements

A. Internet Safety Measures

ENCSD shall adopt, implement, and maintain an internet safety policy that does the following:

1. Limit Access to Age-Appropriate Content: Limit student access to only age-appropriate subject matter and materials on devices or internet services.
2. Protect Communication Security: Protect the safety and security of students when access email, chat rooms, and other forms of electronic communication.
3. Prohibit Unauthorized Access: Prohibit and prevent unauthorized access by students to data or information maintained by ENCSC, including “hacking” and other unlawful online activities.
4. Prevent Personal Information Disclosure: Prevent access to websites, web applications or software that do not protect against disclosure, use, or dissemination of a student’s personal information.
5. Prohibit Social Media Access: Prohibit and prevent students from accessing social media platforms, except when expressly directed by a teacher solely for educational purposes.
6. Implement CIPA Technology: Implement and maintain technology protection measures to block inappropriate material (obscene, child pornography, or harmful to minors) in compliance with CIPA.
7. Staff Supervision: Provide supervision and monitoring of student internet use by ENCSD staff.
8. CIPA Compliance: Conduct public notice and at least one public hearing before adopting or making significant changes to this policy, per CIPA requirements.

B. Internet Safety Education

ENCSD shall provide age-appropriate internet safety training as part of the standard course of study, including:

• General Safety and Cyberbullying: Safet internet practices, cyberbullying awareness and response, and responsible use of electronic communication.
• Deepfakes and Media Literacy: Education on deepfakes, misinformation, and media literacy to help students critically evaluate online content.
• Mandated Social Media and Health Instruction: Instruction on social media and its effects on health (social, emotional, and physical), provided:
  • Once during elementary school
  • Once during middle school
  • Twice during high school
  • This instruction must cover:
    • Negative effects on mental health (including addiction)
    • Misinformation distribution
    • Manipulative behavior methods
    • The permanency of online information
    • Maintaining personal security
    • How to identify cyberbullying/predatory behavior/human trafficking
    • How to report suspicious behavior

IV. Bullying and Harassment Prevention

A. Definition

Bullying and harassment involve repeated verbal, written, electronic, or physical behavior that:

• Causes fear of harm to a student or employee.
• Creates a hostile environment that interferes with a student’s education.

Bullying may be motivated by characteristics such as race, gender, disability, or socioeconomic status.

B. Prohibited Conduct

The following behaviors are prohibited:

• Threats, intimidation, and abusive language
• Spreading false rumors
• Cyberbullying via text, social media, or email
• Use of deepfake technology to spread false or misleading information about students or staff
• Physical aggression (e.g., hitting, shoving, spitting)

V. Reporting and Investigation

1. Any student who experiences cyberbullying or harassment should report the incident to a teacher, counselor, or administrator. Anonymous reporting is available.
2. Employees who witness violations must report them immediately.
3. All reports shall be investigated within 24 hours by school administration.
4. Disciplinary actions will follow the ENCSD Code of Conduct and may include counseling, parental notification, and suspension.
5. Retaliation against individuals who report bullying is strictly prohibited.

VI. Compliance and Review

1. All ENCSD employees, students, and volunteers shall receive annual training on Internet safety and cyberbullying prevention.
2. ENCSD shall conduct annual policy reviews to ensure compliance with evolving state and federal laws, including NC DPI guidelines.
3. ENCSD shall maintain documentation of compliance with CIPA, including records of public notices, hearings, and technology protection measures.
4. The LAN Manager or designated representatives shall be responsible for implementing and managing technology protection measures.
5. This policy shall be incorporated into employee training materials, student codes of conduct, and school handbooks.

VII. Contact Information

For questions regarding this policy, please contact the ENCSD Administration Office.

Approval & Adoption: This policy is adopted in accordance with federal and state regulations and will be enforced across ENCSD.

Legal References:

• Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) [Pub. L. No. 106-554 and 47 USC § 254(h)]
• Protecting Children in the 21st Century Act
• Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
• G.S. § 115C-407.5 (Related to Bullying and Harassment)
• G.S. § 115C-102.10 (Internet Safety Policy, enacted by S.L. 2025-38, § 1(a))
• G.S. § 115C-81.26 (Social media and mental health instruction, enacted by S.L. 2025-38, § 2(a))
• North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NC DPI) CIPA Compliance Guidelines

Revision History:

(Aligned to the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) [Pub. L. No 106-554 and 47 USC 254(h)])

I. Purpose

The Eastern North Carolina School for the Deaf (ENCSD) is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and secure online environment for all students. This policy establishes guidelines for internet safety, ethical digital behavior, and measures to prevent and respond to cyberbullying and harassment in compliance with federal and state laws, including G.S. § 115C-102.10 and the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA).

II. Definitions

• Cyberbullying: The use of electronic communication to harass, intimidate, or harm an individual.
• Inappropriate Material: Content that is obscene, depicts child pornography, or is harmful to minors as defined by the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA).
• Unauthorized Access: Any attempt to access restricted data, systems, or networks without permission.
• Deepfakes: Digitally altered media, including images, audio, and videos, that manipulate reality in a misleading or deceptive manner, often using artificial intelligence.
• Social Media Platform: Any platform or application that allows users to create and share content publicly or privately.

III. Policy Requirements

A. Internet Safety Measures

ENCSD shall adopt, implement, and maintain an internet safety policy that does the following:

1. Limit Access to Age-Appropriate Content: Limit student access to only age-appropriate subject matter and materials on devices or internet services.
2. Protect Communication Security: Protect the safety and security of students when access email, chat rooms, and other forms of electronic communication.
3. Prohibit Unauthorized Access: Prohibit and prevent unauthorized access by students to data or information maintained by ENCSC, including “hacking” and other unlawful online activities.
4. Prevent Personal Information Disclosure: Prevent access to websites, web applications or software that do not protect against disclosure, use, or dissemination of a student’s personal information.
5. Prohibit Social Media Access: Prohibit and prevent students from accessing social media platforms, except when expressly directed by a teacher solely for educational purposes.
6. Implement CIPA Technology: Implement and maintain technology protection measures to block inappropriate material (obscene, child pornography, or harmful to minors) in compliance with CIPA.
7. Staff Supervision: Provide supervision and monitoring of student internet use by ENCSD staff.
8. CIPA Compliance: Conduct public notice and at least one public hearing before adopting or making significant changes to this policy, per CIPA requirements.

B. Internet Safety Education

ENCSD shall provide age-appropriate internet safety training as part of the standard course of study, including:

• General Safety and Cyberbullying: Safet internet practices, cyberbullying awareness and response, and responsible use of electronic communication.
• Deepfakes and Media Literacy: Education on deepfakes, misinformation, and media literacy to help students critically evaluate online content.
• Mandated Social Media and Health Instruction: Instruction on social media and its effects on health (social, emotional, and physical), provided:
  • Once during elementary school
  • Once during middle school
  • Twice during high school
  • This instruction must cover:
    • Negative effects on mental health (including addiction)
    • Misinformation distribution
    • Manipulative behavior methods
    • The permanency of online information
    • Maintaining personal security
    • How to identify cyberbullying/predatory behavior/human trafficking
    • How to report suspicious behavior

IV. Bullying and Harassment Prevention

A. Definition

Bullying and harassment involve repeated verbal, written, electronic, or physical behavior that:

• Causes fear of harm to a student or employee.
• Creates a hostile environment that interferes with a student’s education.

Bullying may be motivated by characteristics such as race, gender, disability, or socioeconomic status.

B. Prohibited Conduct

The following behaviors are prohibited:

• Threats, intimidation, and abusive language
• Spreading false rumors
• Cyberbullying via text, social media, or email
• Use of deepfake technology to spread false or misleading information about students or staff
• Physical aggression (e.g., hitting, shoving, spitting)

V. Reporting and Investigation

1. Any student who experiences cyberbullying or harassment should report the incident to a teacher, counselor, or administrator. Anonymous reporting is available.
2. Employees who witness violations must report them immediately.
3. All reports shall be investigated within 24 hours by school administration.
4. Disciplinary actions will follow the ENCSD Code of Conduct and may include counseling, parental notification, and suspension.
5. Retaliation against individuals who report bullying is strictly prohibited.

VI. Compliance and Review

1. All ENCSD employees, students, and volunteers shall receive annual training on Internet safety and cyberbullying prevention.
2. ENCSD shall conduct annual policy reviews to ensure compliance with evolving state and federal laws, including NC DPI guidelines.
3. ENCSD shall maintain documentation of compliance with CIPA, including records of public notices, hearings, and technology protection measures.
4. The LAN Manager or designated representatives shall be responsible for implementing and managing technology protection measures.
5. This policy shall be incorporated into employee training materials, student codes of conduct, and school handbooks.

VII. Contact Information

For questions regarding this policy, please contact the ENCSD Administration Office.

Approval & Adoption: This policy is adopted in accordance with federal and state regulations and will be enforced across ENCSD.

Legal References:

• Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) [Pub. L. No. 106-554 and 47 USC § 254(h)]
• Protecting Children in the 21st Century Act
• Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
• G.S. § 115C-407.5 (Related to Bullying and Harassment)
• G.S. § 115C-102.10 (Internet Safety Policy, enacted by S.L. 2025-38, § 1(a))
• G.S. § 115C-81.26 (Social media and mental health instruction, enacted by S.L. 2025-38, § 2(a))
• North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NC DPI) CIPA Compliance Guidelines

Revision History:

I. Purpose

The Eastern North Carolina School for the Deaf (ENCSD) recognizes the importance of providing employees with leave options to attend to personal, civic, and professional responsibilities while maintaining an effective instructional program for students. Employees will not be subject to termination, demotion, or other adverse employment actions for taking leave in compliance with board policies and administrative procedures.

All leave requests, whether paid or unpaid, must adhere to state and federal laws and policies set forth by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI), including the most current version of the North Carolina Public Schools Benefits and Employment Policy Manual, available at:
https://www.dpi.nc.gov/districts-schools/districts-schools-support/district-human-capital/employee-policy

This policy supplements, rather than replaces, applicable legal requirements. If any state or federal law or regulation conflicts with existing ENCSD or State Board policies, this policy will be modified as necessary to ensure compliance.

II. Definitions

For purposes of this policy, the following terms are defined as follows:

• 126 Employee: An employee subject to the North Carolina Human Resources Act (N.C.G.S. Chapter 126), typically administrative, clerical, or support staff.
• 115C Employee: A licensed or certified employee serving in a public-school capacity, including teachers and instructional support staff, governed under Chapter 115C of the North Carolina General Statutes.
• Permanent Full-Time Employee: An employee regularly scheduled to work 40 hours per week for at least nine (9) months in a calendar year.
• Immediate Family Member: Includes spouse, parent, child, sibling, grandparent, grandchild, or in-law equivalent of any of these relationships.
• FMLA: The Family and Medical Leave Act, which provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for qualifying medical or family reasons.
• Excessive Absences: More than 10 unapproved absences in a school year, or a recurring pattern of absences that negatively impacts job performance.
• Tardiness: Arriving late to work beyond the scheduled start time without prior approval or valid reason.
• Compensatory Time (Comp Time): Time off earned by non-exempt employees in lieu of overtime pay for hours worked beyond 40 in a workweek, as allowed under the Fair Labor Standards Act.
• Personal Observance Day: A full day of leave designated by the employee for a day of personal religious or cultural significance, in accordance with state law.
• Voluntary Shared Leave: A program that allows employees to donate earned leave to fellow employees experiencing a serious medical hardship, administered under state policy.

III. Employee Classifications

Employees at ENCSD are classified under two primary categories based on North Carolina General Statutes:

A. 126 Employees (State Human Resources Act Employees)

These employees are subject to the North Carolina Human Resources Act and typically include administrative, clerical, and support staff. Leave is accrued according to the North Carolina State Human Resources policy, based on years of service.

B. 115C Employees (Certified Public-School Employees)

These include teachers, instructional support staff, and other school-based employees. Leave accrual and usage follow state public school guidelines and the academic calendar.

IV. General Leave Guidelines

A. Minimum Leave Time

Leave may be taken in hourly increments unless otherwise specified.

B. Continuous Leave of More Than 10 Days

Employees requesting more than ten (10) consecutive days of leave must follow the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) requirements, including appropriate notice and verification.

V. Leave Categories

A. Sick Leave

• Permanent full-time employees earn one (1) sick day per month. Part-time employees accrue leave on a pro-rata basis.
• Sick leave may be used for:
  • Personal illness or medical appointments
  • Illness or death in the immediate family (spouse, parent, child, grandparent, sibling, or in-law)
• A physician's certificate may be required.
• Falsified sick leave statements are grounds for dismissal.
• Employees must notify supervisors as early as possible, and no later than 1.5 hours before their start time unless there is an emergency.
• Sick leave from another NC public school system may be transferred with notarized verification.

B. Personal Leave 

• Earn two (2) personal leave days per ten-month term (0.2 per month), up to five days.
• May only be used in half-day or full-day increments.
• Requires prior approval.
• May not be used on the first/last instructional day or directly before/after holidays unless approved.

C. Personal Observance Leave

• One personal observance day per fiscal year, in accordance with state policy.
• Employees must use a full day.
• Personal Observance Leave must be used within the calendar year (January 1 – December 31).  If it is not used it will be forfeited.
• Must be requested in advance and approved.

D. Professional Leave

• Must be pre-approved by the Superintendent or designee.
• Includes conferences, workshops, and training.

E. Compensatory Leave

• Non-exempt employees (FLSA) may accrue compensatory (comp) time.
• Comp time should be used within the same pay period when possible.

F. Bereavement Leave

• Eligible employees are as follows:
  • Permanent, probationary, or time-limited employees; and
  • Regularly scheduled to work half time (50%) or more.
  • Part-time employees working less than half-time are not eligible.
• For the death of an immediate family member, eligible employees are entitled to up to 40 hours of paid Bereavement Leave.  Part-time employees receive a prorated amount based on scheduled hours relative to full-time.
• The leave may be taken in one continuous block or multiple segments within the allowed timeframe.
• For immediate family members, the leave must be used within 180 days of the date of death.
• The leave only applies to days on which the employee is otherwise scheduled to work.  If the funeral or event falls on a non-workday for the employee, the leave does not apply.
• The employee must submit a request for Bereavement Leave to their supervisor as soon as practicable.
• Employee must provide documentation such as a death certificate, obituary, or memorial program, within a reasonable time after request.
• This leave is separate from and in addition to accrued vacation, sick, or personal leave.
• Use of Bereavement Leave does not count as creditable service toward retirement, and the leave is not cumulative or convertible to cash.

G. Adverse Weather

• The ENCSD Superintendent will determine the operational status of the school and communicate the status to all staff via official school channels in a timely manner.
• Employees designated as mandatory employees must report to or remain at work unless otherwise directed by their supervisor.
  • Residential and student-support services (nutrition, transportation, student health center) are considered mandatory while students are on campus.
• Non-Mandatory employees may:
  • Report to work at the usual time if it is safe to do so, or
  • Arrive late or leave early with supervisory approval, or
  • Work remotely with supervisor approval (if job function allows)
• Employees who do not report to work and cannot work remotely will have 90 days to make up the time missed.
  • To make up the time missed employee must seek supervisor approval.
  • There must be an operational need for employees to arrive to work early or stay later to make up the missed time.
• Time missed during an adverse weather condition shall be recorded and managed in accordance with ENCSD Payroll procedures and must be clearly identified as adverse weather condition time.
  • For days or hours missed due to school closure or shift to remote learning, employees will be compensated for regular scheduled pay if they are excused from work.
  • If employees perform work (onsite or remotely) during adverse weather conditions, normal hours will be paid.
  • Exempt (salaried) employees must be paid their full salary for the week if they perform any work, consistent with the Fair Labor Standards Act and state guidance.
  • Non-exempt (hourly) employees will be paid for actual hours worked or otherwise covered as approved within this policy.

H. Discretionary Leave of Absence Without Pay

• May be requested for up to one (1) calendar year.
• Requests should be made in writing at least 60 days in advance, if possible.
• Approval is at the discretion of the Superintendent and Board.
• Once approved, leave dates are binding unless amended by mutual agreement.

I. Voluntary Shared Leave

• Available in accordance with OSHR policy.
• For more details, employees should consult ENCSD HR or visit: OSHR Voluntary Shared Leave

J. Military Leave

• Granted per USERRA and NC law.
• May be used for active duty, training, or emergencies.
• Employees must notify supervisors and HR in advance unless military necessity prevents it.
• Leave may be paid (using annual leave/comp time) or unpaid.
• Reemployment rights apply under federal law.

K. Other Leave

Includes:

• Religious observance leave
• Jury duty
• Community service leave
• Parental involvement leave
• Parental leave without pay
  These types of leave are granted in accordance with applicable laws.

VI. Attendance Expectations

A. Excessive Absences

Regular attendance is a fundamental expectation. Excessive absences are defined as:

• More than 10 unapproved absences in a school year, OR
• A pattern of frequent absences (e.g., repeated Mondays/Fridays) that interfere with responsibilities.

Supervisors may require employees to:

• Provide medical documentation for future absences
• Meet with HR
• Develop an attendance improvement plan
• Be subject to progressive discipline, including dismissal

B. Tardiness

• Employees are expected to arrive on time.
• Repeated tardiness may lead to:
  • Required use of leave time to cover lateness
  • Formal disciplinary action

VII. Leave Forms

All leave request forms are available through the FIORI system.

Legal References

• G.S. 95-28.3; 115C-12, -36, -47, -84.2, -218.90(a)(3), -238.68(3), -285, -302.1, -316, -336, -336.1
• 16 N.C.A.C. 6C.0405
• State Board of Education Policy BENF-001
• North Carolina Public Schools Benefits and Employment Policy Manual
• Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
• Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA)

Revision Summary

• Adverse Weather and Bereavement sections added
• Clarified references to 115C and 126 employees
• Changed procedures for leave forms to using the FIORI system

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for the retention, maintenance, and disposition of records at ENCSD to ensure legal compliance, operational efficiency, and security. This policy aligns with the North Carolina Functional Schedule, the North Carolina Public Records Law (N.C.G.S. 132), including the publication requirements of G.S. § 115C-320 (S.L. 2025-73), the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and state cybersecurity regulations. 

2. Scope

This policy applies to all records, regardless of format (physical, electronic, audio, video, etc.), created, received, or maintained by all ENCSD departments and personnel, including but not limited to the following departments: Academics, Administration, Nutrition, Residential, Maintenance, Housekeeping, Business Office, Human Resources, Student Health Center, School Psychologist, School Social Worker, School Speech Pathologist, ENCSD Museum, and Information Technology.

3. General Records Management Guidelines

1. Retention and Disposition

• Retention Schedule
  • All records are to be retained in accordance with the North Carolina Functional Schedule.
  • If a specific state statute, federal regulation, or other legal requirement mandates a longer retention period than the functional schedule, that longer (or more restrictive) period governs.
• Category-specific Requirements.
  • Student Records: (Academic, Disciplinary, Health, IEPs, Residential) Retained permanently or as outlined in the schedule.  Compliance with FERPA is mandatory for all student data, and compliance with HIPAA is mandatory for all protected student health information (PHI).
  • Personnel Records: (Employment History, Benefits, Evaluations) Retained for 30 years after separation (N.C.G.S. § 126-22) to manage potential claims.
  • Financial Records: (Budgets, Audits, Payrolls) Retained for 5-10 years, depending on the document type, per N.C.G.S. § 132.3.
  • Facility and Safety Records: (Maintenance Logs, Incident Reports, Compliance Records) Retained per the schedule (often 5-25 years), based on regulatory risk and archival value.
  • Administrative Correspondence/General Reports: Retain for 3-5 years unless deemed historically or legally significant.
• Security and Storage
  • Digital Records: Use secure storage, with access controls, encryption where appropriate, and adherence to state cybersecurity policies.
  • Physical Records: Stored in secure, access-controlled areas to protect against unauthorized access, damage, or loss.
• Disposition/Destruction
  • When records reach the end of their retention period, they must be disposed of in a secure manner:
    • Physical records: shredding, incineration, or other secure destruction.
    • Electronic records: secure deletion, data wiping, or physical destruction of media.
  • Disposal must follow the procedures laid out in the functional schedule and any state archival or public records law requirements.

4. Public Records Access and Disclosure

1. Definition and Legal Bias
   • ENCSD considers any record made or received in connection with its public duties a public record, unless expressly exempted by state or federal law. 
2. Requests for Records
   • ENCS shall maintain a public records request process. Requests should be made in writing or documented by ENCSD personnel.
   • ENCSD should designate a Chief Recodes Compliance Officer responsible for handling requests, tracking them, and responding in compliance with the law.  This person may issue guidelines consistent with this policy.
   • If a request is denied, ENCSD must provide a written denial explaining the basis for withholding, referencing legal exemptions (e.g., FERPA, HIPPA, confidentiality).
3. Fees
   • ENCSD may charge fees for copying public records in accordance with applicable law (N.C.G.S. 132) and administrative guidelines.  Fees should reflect the actual cost of duplication, search, and redaction.
4. Compliance with G.S. § 115C-320 (As Amended by S.L. 2025-73)
   • In accordance with Section 2(b1) of S.L. 2025-73, ENCSD shall publish and maintain on its website, no later than August 15, 2025, and annually thereafter, the following for all “central office” employees:
     • Total compensation from all funding sources, including base salary, reimbursements, allowances, bonuses, deferred compensation, and other pay forms.
     • Position title and description of position.
     • The date the position was created in ENCSD.
     • The department, unit, or office in which the position resides.
     • The number of central office employees for each position title.
   • ENCSD must maintain internal records tracking the date and amount of each change (increase/decrease) in total compensation, promotions, demotions, suspensions, separations, and employment classifications per G.S. 115C-320.
5. ADA/Accessibility Requirements

Given that ENCSD is a school for the deaf and is itself a state agency, it must ensure that public records are accessible in a manner consistent with ADA Title II (public entity obligations) and Section 504, ensuring effective communication.  To that end:

• Any audio or video records made public must include closed captions, transcripts, or other equivalent alternatives.
  • Digital records must be compatible with assistive technologies and provided in accessible formats upon request.
  • The Chief Records Compliance Officer must respond to accessibility requests in a timely manner and provide alternate formats when necessary to ensure access.

5. Confidentiality and Privacy Protections

1. FERPA/Student Privacy
   • Student education records (including health, IEPs, disciplinary information) are protected under FERPA.  Any public release of student data must comply with FERPA regulations; personally identifiable information (PII) must not be disclosed without appropriate consent or legal exception.
2. HIPAA/Health Records
   • For student health records maintained by the Student Health Center (SHC), ENCSD must comply with HIPAA (as applicable), ensuring PHI is stored securely, disclosed only under permissible uses, and access is limited to authorized personnel.
   • Sensitive personal information (social security number, medical records, etc.) must be protected and not disclosed in public records, except where required by law.
3. Personnel Records/Privacy
   • ENCSD must manage employee personnel records consistent with NC OSHR policy, which outlines what is public vs confidential in personnel files.
   • Sensitive personal information (social security numbers, medical records, etc.) must be protected and not disclosed in public records, except where required by law.

6. Accountability, Oversite, and Review

1. Chief Records Compliance Officer
   • ENCSD shall designate a Chief Records Compliance Officer responsible for overseeing this policy’s implementation, ensuring compliance, training staff, and serving as the point of contact for records requests.
2. Departmental Responsibilities
   • Each department shall maintain a record log that includes:
     • Record type
     • Date of creation
     • Retention period
     • Person responsible
     • Planned disposition
   • Departments must review their record logs annually to ensure conformity with the Functional schedule.
3. Policy Review and Training
   • ENCSD leadership must review this policy at least annually and update it as needed to reflect changes in law, regulation, or internal practice.
   • ENCSD will provide annual training for staff on records management, public records law obligations, FERPA/HIPPA confidentiality, and ADA accessibility for records.
4. Reporting
   • The Chief Records Compliance Officer shall produce an annual compliance report to be submitted to the Superintendent, including outstanding public records requests, denials, appeals, and accessibility accommodation requests.

VII. Legal References 

• North Carolina Public Records Law, N.C.G.S. Chapter 132
  • North Carolina Functional Schedule for Local and State Agencies
  • G.S. § 115C-320 (as amended by S.L. 2025-73 / SB 375) — Publication and inspection of central-office employee compensation and personnel data North Carolina General Assembly
  • Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232g)
  • Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) (45 CFR Parts 160 & 164)
  • NC OSHR Personnel Records Policy (in accordance with G.S. 126-4, Article 7) OSHR NC
  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Title II (public entities)

Revision History:

Effective Date: 03/01/2025
Last Updated: 03/01/2025

1. Introduction
   The Eastern North Carolina School for the Deaf (ENCSD) is committed to protecting the privacy and security of students, staff, and school community information. This policy outlines our procedures for collecting, storing, using, and sharing educational records and personal data in compliance with:
   • Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99)
   • Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) (20 U.S.C. § 1400 et seq.; 34 CFR Part 300)
   • Fair Information Practice Principles (FIPPs)
   • North Carolina State Privacy Laws
   • Other applicable federal and state regulations
      

1. Definitions
   • Personally Identifiable Information (PII): Any data that can be used to identify a student, staff member, or parent, including but not limited to names, addresses, student IDs, birth dates, and educational records.
   • Education Records: Any records maintained by ENCSD that relate directly to a student, including academic records, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), disciplinary records, and medical records covered under IDEA.
   • Directory Information: Information that may be disclosed without consent, such as student name, grade level, and participation in activities—unless a parent/guardian opts out.
   • Legitimate Educational Interest: A school official's need to access student records to fulfill their professional responsibilities.
      

1. Collection and Use of Student Information
   NCSD collects student data for the sole purpose of providing quality educational services and ensuring student success. Data collection is limited to what is necessary to support teaching, learning, safety, and compliance with state and federal laws.
    
   1. Types of Information Collected:
      • Student identification and demographic information
      • Academic records, including grades and assessments
      • Special education and IEP documentation (for eligible students)
      • Attendance and disciplinary records
      • Health and emergency contact information
      • Communication logs with families and staff
   2. How We Use This Information:
      • To support instructional and special education services
      • To track academic progress and attendance
      • To ensure student safety and well-being
      • To comply with federal, state, and local reporting requirements
      • To communicate with parents, guardians, and authorized school personnel
         

2. ---

   Privacy and Security of Student Records
   ENCSD protects all education records and student PII through secure storage, restricted access, and encryption measures where applicable.

   1. Access to Student Records
      Student records are only accessible to:
      • Parents/guardians (for minors) or eligible students (18+ years old)
      • School officials with a legitimate educational interest
      • State and federal agencies when required by law
      • Other parties with explicit parental consent

   Unauthorized access, discussion, or disclosure of student information is strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary action.

   2. Safeguarding Confidentiality
      ENCSD follows best practices for safeguarding student and staff data, including:
      • Secure storage of paper records (locked cabinets, restricted access)
      • Digital encryption for electronic student records
      • Two-factor authentication for accessing sensitive data
      • Annual privacy training for all staff handling student data
         

1. Student Rights Under FERPA & IDEA
   Under FERPA (34 CFR § 99.10-99.12) and IDEA (34 CFR § 300.613), students and parents have the following rights:
    
   1. Right to Access Records
      Parents and eligible students may inspect, review, and request copies of their education records. ENCSD will respond to requests within 45 days.
       
   2. Right to Request Amendments
      If parents or students believe a record is inaccurate, they may submit a written request for correction. ENCSD will review the request and notify the requester of any changes.

   3. Right to Control Disclosure
      Schools must obtain written consent before disclosing a student's PII, except in cases where FERPA permits disclosure, such as:

      • To school officials with a legitimate educational interest
      • To other schools where a student is transferring/enrolling
      • To state or federal education authorities for audits and program evaluations
      • To comply with court orders or subpoenas
      • To protect health or safety in emergencies

      Upon request, ENCSD may disclose student records to another school where a student seeks to enroll, with reasonable efforts to notify parents unless prior notification is included in the annual FERPA notice.

   4. Right to Opt-Out of Directory Information
      Parents may opt out of having their child's directory information shared by submitting a written request to ENCSD's administration.
   5. Right to File a Complaint
      Parents and students may file complaints regarding FERPA violations with:
      Family Policy Compliance Office
      U.S. Department of Education
      400 Maryland Avenue, SW
      Washington, DC 20202-5920
       

2. ---

   Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA)
   Under PPRA, parents and eligible students have rights regarding:

   • Surveys containing sensitive topics (e.g., political beliefs, psychological issues, religious affiliations, income, etc.)
   • Opt-out rights for non-emergency physical exams or screenings.
   • Reviewing instructional materials and data collection instruments used for student surveys.

   Complaints related to PPRA violations may be filed with the Family Policy Compliance Office at the U.S. Department of Education.

3. ---

   Student Directory Information & Opt-Out Rights
   ENCSD may release directory information without parental consent, unless a parent/guardian opts out. This includes:

   • Student name, grade level, dates of attendance
   • Participation in school activities and sports
   • Awards, diplomas, and certifications earned
   • Student photographs in school-approved publications

   Parents may submit a written request to the school principal to restrict the release of directory information. Under federal law, ENCSD must also release student names, addresses, and phone numbers to military recruiters and institutions of higher learning, unless an opt-out request is submitted.

1. Sharing and Disclosure of Student Information
   ENCSD does not sell, trade, or misuse student information. However, information may be shared in strictly regulated situations, including:
   1. Permitted Disclosures Without Consent (Under FERPA & IDEA)
      • To school officials with a legitimate educational interest
      • To other schools where a student is transferring/enrolling
      • To state or federal education authorities for audits and program evaluations
      • To comply with court orders or subpoenas
      • To protect health or safety in emergencies
   2. Third-Party Data Use
      ENCSD only partners with approved educational service providers (e.g., learning platforms, testing services) that comply with FERPA, IDEA, and FIPPs. All contracts require:
      • Data encryption and security measures
      • Limited use of student data for educational purposes only
      • No unauthorized data sharing or selling
         

2. ---

   Staff Responsibilities & Training
   All ENCSD employees are responsible for safeguarding student privacy. Staff must:

   • Follow FERPA and IDEA confidentiality rules
   • Use secure communication methods (e.g., no discussing student info in public areas)
   • Report any suspected data breaches to administration immediately

   Staff members receive annual privacy training to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal laws.

3. ---

   Parental Involvement & Communication
   ENCSD values transparency and parental involvement. Parents are encouraged to:

   • Review their child's records regularly
   • Ask questions about how student data is used
   • Opt-out of directory information sharing if desired

   For any concerns, parents may contact ENCSD's Superintendent's Office at:
   cheryl.iannucci@encsd.k12.nc.us
   252 206-7342

4. ---

   Reporting Privacy Concerns or Violations
   If you believe student privacy has been violated, you may report concerns to:

   • ENCSD Administration
   • North Carolina Department of Public Instruction
   • U.S. Department of Education - Family Policy Compliance Office (FERPA Complaints)

   ENCSD takes all privacy concerns seriously and will investigate any potential violations promptly.

5. Updates to This Policy
   ENCSD reserves the right to update this Privacy Policy in response to changes in law, best practices, or school operations. Updates will be communicated via email and the school website.

Website Privacy Policy

This privacy statement was created to demonstrate our firm commitment to our visitors' privacy. The following discloses our information gathering and dissemination practices for the ENCSD website.

Information Collected and Stored Automatically

When you visit our website to browse, read pages, or download information, we automatically collect and store the following information:

• Internet domain and IP address from which you access our site
• Type of browser and operating system used to access our site
• Date and time you access our site
• Pages you visit
• If you came to our site from another website, the address of that site
• The search engine and search words/phrases used to locate our site (if applicable)

We use this information to help us make our site more useful to visitors and to learn about the number of visitors to our site and the types of technology our visitors use.

Personal and Demographic Information

In general, you can visit the ENCSD website without providing any personal information. Subscriptions to our email publications require your email address. Other information requested during the subscribing process is optional and is used to learn more about the visitors using our email news service to better serve them.

Cookies

This site uses cookies on a limited basis to help us provide fresh, individual content to our visitors. ENCSD does not track information collected by cookies during a visit to our website.

External Website Links

Pages on this site provide links to other sites that are not maintained by ENCSD. These links are intended as additional resources for our users. ENCSD is not responsible for the content of any off-site pages or any other sites linked from this site. As a result, this agency cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, usefulness, or adequacy of any resources, information, products, or processes contained in any website linked directly or indirectly to our site. We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of non-ENCSD websites. Links to external sites do not constitute endorsement.

Web Site Security

For website security purposes and to ensure that this service remains available to all users, this computer system employs software programs to monitor network traffic to identify unauthorized attempts to upload or change information or otherwise cause damage. These attempts to cause damage could be subject to legal action.

Compliance with FERPA and Educational Privacy Laws

ENCSD complies with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and all applicable federal, state, and local educational privacy laws. This includes, but is not limited to, ensuring the confidentiality of student education records, providing parents and eligible students the right to review and request amendments to records, and limiting disclosures of personally identifiable information without appropriate consent.

For more details on FERPA compliance, please review the "Notification of Rights under FERPA" section.

Contact Information

For any questions regarding this privacy policy, please contact ENCSD administration.

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for the retention, maintenance, and disposition of records at ENCSD to ensure legal compliance, operational efficiency, and security. This policy aligns with the North Carolina Functional Schedule, the North Carolina Public Records Law (N.C.G.S. 132), including the publication requirements of G.S. § 115C-320 (S.L. 2025-73), the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and state cybersecurity regulations. 

2. Scope

This policy applies to all records, regardless of format (physical, electronic, audio, video, etc.), created, received, or maintained by all ENCSD departments and personnel, including but not limited to the following departments: Academics, Administration, Nutrition, Residential, Maintenance, Housekeeping, Business Office, Human Resources, Student Health Center, School Psychologist, School Social Worker, School Speech Pathologist, ENCSD Museum, and Information Technology.

3. General Records Management Guidelines

1. Retention and Disposition

• Retention Schedule
  • All records are to be retained in accordance with the North Carolina Functional Schedule.
  • If a specific state statute, federal regulation, or other legal requirement mandates a longer retention period than the functional schedule, that longer (or more restrictive) period governs.
• Category-specific Requirements.
  • Student Records: (Academic, Disciplinary, Health, IEPs, Residential) Retained permanently or as outlined in the schedule.  Compliance with FERPA is mandatory for all student data, and compliance with HIPAA is mandatory for all protected student health information (PHI).
  • Personnel Records: (Employment History, Benefits, Evaluations) Retained for 30 years after separation (N.C.G.S. § 126-22) to manage potential claims.
  • Financial Records: (Budgets, Audits, Payrolls) Retained for 5-10 years, depending on the document type, per N.C.G.S. § 132.3.
  • Facility and Safety Records: (Maintenance Logs, Incident Reports, Compliance Records) Retained per the schedule (often 5-25 years), based on regulatory risk and archival value.
  • Administrative Correspondence/General Reports: Retain for 3-5 years unless deemed historically or legally significant.
• Security and Storage
  • Digital Records: Use secure storage, with access controls, encryption where appropriate, and adherence to state cybersecurity policies.
  • Physical Records: Stored in secure, access-controlled areas to protect against unauthorized access, damage, or loss.
• Disposition/Destruction
  • When records reach the end of their retention period, they must be disposed of in a secure manner:
    • Physical records: shredding, incineration, or other secure destruction.
    • Electronic records: secure deletion, data wiping, or physical destruction of media.
  • Disposal must follow the procedures laid out in the functional schedule and any state archival or public records law requirements.

4. Public Records Access and Disclosure

1. Definition and Legal Bias
   • ENCSD considers any record made or received in connection with its public duties a public record, unless expressly exempted by state or federal law. 
2. Requests for Records
   • ENCS shall maintain a public records request process. Requests should be made in writing or documented by ENCSD personnel.
   • ENCSD should designate a Chief Recodes Compliance Officer responsible for handling requests, tracking them, and responding in compliance with the law.  This person may issue guidelines consistent with this policy.
   • If a request is denied, ENCSD must provide a written denial explaining the basis for withholding, referencing legal exemptions (e.g., FERPA, HIPPA, confidentiality).
3. Fees
   • ENCSD may charge fees for copying public records in accordance with applicable law (N.C.G.S. 132) and administrative guidelines.  Fees should reflect the actual cost of duplication, search, and redaction.
4. Compliance with G.S. § 115C-320 (As Amended by S.L. 2025-73)
   • In accordance with Section 2(b1) of S.L. 2025-73, ENCSD shall publish and maintain on its website, no later than August 15, 2025, and annually thereafter, the following for all “central office” employees:
     • Total compensation from all funding sources, including base salary, reimbursements, allowances, bonuses, deferred compensation, and other pay forms.
     • Position title and description of position.
     • The date the position was created in ENCSD.
     • The department, unit, or office in which the position resides.
     • The number of central office employees for each position title.
   • ENCSD must maintain internal records tracking the date and amount of each change (increase/decrease) in total compensation, promotions, demotions, suspensions, separations, and employment classifications per G.S. 115C-320.
5. ADA/Accessibility Requirements

Given that ENCSD is a school for the deaf and is itself a state agency, it must ensure that public records are accessible in a manner consistent with ADA Title II (public entity obligations) and Section 504, ensuring effective communication.  To that end:

• Any audio or video records made public must include closed captions, transcripts, or other equivalent alternatives.
  • Digital records must be compatible with assistive technologies and provided in accessible formats upon request.
  • The Chief Records Compliance Officer must respond to accessibility requests in a timely manner and provide alternate formats when necessary to ensure access.

5. Confidentiality and Privacy Protections

1. FERPA/Student Privacy
   • Student education records (including health, IEPs, disciplinary information) are protected under FERPA.  Any public release of student data must comply with FERPA regulations; personally identifiable information (PII) must not be disclosed without appropriate consent or legal exception.
2. HIPAA/Health Records
   • For student health records maintained by the Student Health Center (SHC), ENCSD must comply with HIPAA (as applicable), ensuring PHI is stored securely, disclosed only under permissible uses, and access is limited to authorized personnel.
   • Sensitive personal information (social security number, medical records, etc.) must be protected and not disclosed in public records, except where required by law.
3. Personnel Records/Privacy
   • ENCSD must manage employee personnel records consistent with NC OSHR policy, which outlines what is public vs confidential in personnel files.
   • Sensitive personal information (social security numbers, medical records, etc.) must be protected and not disclosed in public records, except where required by law.

6. Accountability, Oversite, and Review

1. Chief Records Compliance Officer
   • ENCSD shall designate a Chief Records Compliance Officer responsible for overseeing this policy’s implementation, ensuring compliance, training staff, and serving as the point of contact for records requests.
2. Departmental Responsibilities
   • Each department shall maintain a record log that includes:
     • Record type
     • Date of creation
     • Retention period
     • Person responsible
     • Planned disposition
   • Departments must review their record logs annually to ensure conformity with the Functional schedule.
3. Policy Review and Training
   • ENCSD leadership must review this policy at least annually and update it as needed to reflect changes in law, regulation, or internal practice.
   • ENCSD will provide annual training for staff on records management, public records law obligations, FERPA/HIPPA confidentiality, and ADA accessibility for records.
4. Reporting
   • The Chief Records Compliance Officer shall produce an annual compliance report to be submitted to the Superintendent, including outstanding public records requests, denials, appeals, and accessibility accommodation requests.

VII. Legal References 

• North Carolina Public Records Law, N.C.G.S. Chapter 132
  • North Carolina Functional Schedule for Local and State Agencies
  • G.S. § 115C-320 (as amended by S.L. 2025-73 / SB 375) — Publication and inspection of central-office employee compensation and personnel data North Carolina General Assembly
  • Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232g)
  • Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) (45 CFR Parts 160 & 164)
  • NC OSHR Personnel Records Policy (in accordance with G.S. 126-4, Article 7) OSHR NC
  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Title II (public entities)

Revision History:

Effective Date: 03/01/2025
Last Updated: 03/01/2025

1. Introduction
   The Eastern North Carolina School for the Deaf (ENCSD) is committed to protecting the privacy and security of students, staff, and school community information. This policy outlines our procedures for collecting, storing, using, and sharing educational records and personal data in compliance with:
   • Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99)
   • Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) (20 U.S.C. § 1400 et seq.; 34 CFR Part 300)
   • Fair Information Practice Principles (FIPPs)
   • North Carolina State Privacy Laws
   • Other applicable federal and state regulations
      

1. Definitions
   • Personally Identifiable Information (PII): Any data that can be used to identify a student, staff member, or parent, including but not limited to names, addresses, student IDs, birth dates, and educational records.
   • Education Records: Any records maintained by ENCSD that relate directly to a student, including academic records, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), disciplinary records, and medical records covered under IDEA.
   • Directory Information: Information that may be disclosed without consent, such as student name, grade level, and participation in activities—unless a parent/guardian opts out.
   • Legitimate Educational Interest: A school official's need to access student records to fulfill their professional responsibilities.
      

1. Collection and Use of Student Information
   NCSD collects student data for the sole purpose of providing quality educational services and ensuring student success. Data collection is limited to what is necessary to support teaching, learning, safety, and compliance with state and federal laws.
    
   1. Types of Information Collected:
      • Student identification and demographic information
      • Academic records, including grades and assessments
      • Special education and IEP documentation (for eligible students)
      • Attendance and disciplinary records
      • Health and emergency contact information
      • Communication logs with families and staff
   2. How We Use This Information:
      • To support instructional and special education services
      • To track academic progress and attendance
      • To ensure student safety and well-being
      • To comply with federal, state, and local reporting requirements
      • To communicate with parents, guardians, and authorized school personnel
         

2. ---

   Privacy and Security of Student Records
   ENCSD protects all education records and student PII through secure storage, restricted access, and encryption measures where applicable.

   1. Access to Student Records
      Student records are only accessible to:
      • Parents/guardians (for minors) or eligible students (18+ years old)
      • School officials with a legitimate educational interest
      • State and federal agencies when required by law
      • Other parties with explicit parental consent

   Unauthorized access, discussion, or disclosure of student information is strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary action.

   2. Safeguarding Confidentiality
      ENCSD follows best practices for safeguarding student and staff data, including:
      • Secure storage of paper records (locked cabinets, restricted access)
      • Digital encryption for electronic student records
      • Two-factor authentication for accessing sensitive data
      • Annual privacy training for all staff handling student data
         

1. Student Rights Under FERPA & IDEA
   Under FERPA (34 CFR § 99.10-99.12) and IDEA (34 CFR § 300.613), students and parents have the following rights:
    
   1. Right to Access Records
      Parents and eligible students may inspect, review, and request copies of their education records. ENCSD will respond to requests within 45 days.
       
   2. Right to Request Amendments
      If parents or students believe a record is inaccurate, they may submit a written request for correction. ENCSD will review the request and notify the requester of any changes.

   3. Right to Control Disclosure
      Schools must obtain written consent before disclosing a student's PII, except in cases where FERPA permits disclosure, such as:

      • To school officials with a legitimate educational interest
      • To other schools where a student is transferring/enrolling
      • To state or federal education authorities for audits and program evaluations
      • To comply with court orders or subpoenas
      • To protect health or safety in emergencies

      Upon request, ENCSD may disclose student records to another school where a student seeks to enroll, with reasonable efforts to notify parents unless prior notification is included in the annual FERPA notice.

   4. Right to Opt-Out of Directory Information
      Parents may opt out of having their child's directory information shared by submitting a written request to ENCSD's administration.
   5. Right to File a Complaint
      Parents and students may file complaints regarding FERPA violations with:
      Family Policy Compliance Office
      U.S. Department of Education
      400 Maryland Avenue, SW
      Washington, DC 20202-5920
       

2. ---

   Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA)
   Under PPRA, parents and eligible students have rights regarding:

   • Surveys containing sensitive topics (e.g., political beliefs, psychological issues, religious affiliations, income, etc.)
   • Opt-out rights for non-emergency physical exams or screenings.
   • Reviewing instructional materials and data collection instruments used for student surveys.

   Complaints related to PPRA violations may be filed with the Family Policy Compliance Office at the U.S. Department of Education.

3. ---

   Student Directory Information & Opt-Out Rights
   ENCSD may release directory information without parental consent, unless a parent/guardian opts out. This includes:

   • Student name, grade level, dates of attendance
   • Participation in school activities and sports
   • Awards, diplomas, and certifications earned
   • Student photographs in school-approved publications

   Parents may submit a written request to the school principal to restrict the release of directory information. Under federal law, ENCSD must also release student names, addresses, and phone numbers to military recruiters and institutions of higher learning, unless an opt-out request is submitted.

1. Sharing and Disclosure of Student Information
   ENCSD does not sell, trade, or misuse student information. However, information may be shared in strictly regulated situations, including:
   1. Permitted Disclosures Without Consent (Under FERPA & IDEA)
      • To school officials with a legitimate educational interest
      • To other schools where a student is transferring/enrolling
      • To state or federal education authorities for audits and program evaluations
      • To comply with court orders or subpoenas
      • To protect health or safety in emergencies
   2. Third-Party Data Use
      ENCSD only partners with approved educational service providers (e.g., learning platforms, testing services) that comply with FERPA, IDEA, and FIPPs. All contracts require:
      • Data encryption and security measures
      • Limited use of student data for educational purposes only
      • No unauthorized data sharing or selling
         

2. ---

   Staff Responsibilities & Training
   All ENCSD employees are responsible for safeguarding student privacy. Staff must:

   • Follow FERPA and IDEA confidentiality rules
   • Use secure communication methods (e.g., no discussing student info in public areas)
   • Report any suspected data breaches to administration immediately

   Staff members receive annual privacy training to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal laws.

3. ---

   Parental Involvement & Communication
   ENCSD values transparency and parental involvement. Parents are encouraged to:

   • Review their child's records regularly
   • Ask questions about how student data is used
   • Opt-out of directory information sharing if desired

   For any concerns, parents may contact ENCSD's Superintendent's Office at:
   cheryl.iannucci@encsd.k12.nc.us
   252 206-7342

4. ---

   Reporting Privacy Concerns or Violations
   If you believe student privacy has been violated, you may report concerns to:

   • ENCSD Administration
   • North Carolina Department of Public Instruction
   • U.S. Department of Education - Family Policy Compliance Office (FERPA Complaints)

   ENCSD takes all privacy concerns seriously and will investigate any potential violations promptly.

5. Updates to This Policy
   ENCSD reserves the right to update this Privacy Policy in response to changes in law, best practices, or school operations. Updates will be communicated via email and the school website.

Website Privacy Policy

This privacy statement was created to demonstrate our firm commitment to our visitors' privacy. The following discloses our information gathering and dissemination practices for the ENCSD website.

Information Collected and Stored Automatically

When you visit our website to browse, read pages, or download information, we automatically collect and store the following information:

• Internet domain and IP address from which you access our site
• Type of browser and operating system used to access our site
• Date and time you access our site
• Pages you visit
• If you came to our site from another website, the address of that site
• The search engine and search words/phrases used to locate our site (if applicable)

We use this information to help us make our site more useful to visitors and to learn about the number of visitors to our site and the types of technology our visitors use.

Personal and Demographic Information

In general, you can visit the ENCSD website without providing any personal information. Subscriptions to our email publications require your email address. Other information requested during the subscribing process is optional and is used to learn more about the visitors using our email news service to better serve them.

Cookies

This site uses cookies on a limited basis to help us provide fresh, individual content to our visitors. ENCSD does not track information collected by cookies during a visit to our website.

External Website Links

Pages on this site provide links to other sites that are not maintained by ENCSD. These links are intended as additional resources for our users. ENCSD is not responsible for the content of any off-site pages or any other sites linked from this site. As a result, this agency cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, usefulness, or adequacy of any resources, information, products, or processes contained in any website linked directly or indirectly to our site. We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of non-ENCSD websites. Links to external sites do not constitute endorsement.

Web Site Security

For website security purposes and to ensure that this service remains available to all users, this computer system employs software programs to monitor network traffic to identify unauthorized attempts to upload or change information or otherwise cause damage. These attempts to cause damage could be subject to legal action.

Compliance with FERPA and Educational Privacy Laws

ENCSD complies with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and all applicable federal, state, and local educational privacy laws. This includes, but is not limited to, ensuring the confidentiality of student education records, providing parents and eligible students the right to review and request amendments to records, and limiting disclosures of personally identifiable information without appropriate consent.

For more details on FERPA compliance, please review the "Notification of Rights under FERPA" section.

Contact Information

For any questions regarding this privacy policy, please contact ENCSD administration.