Message forwarded for Betsy Rubin:

-----Original Message-----
From: Betsy Rubin - Literacy Works [mailto:literacyworks.betsyrubin at gmail.com]
Sent: Tuesday, November 18, 2008 10:52 PM
To: specialtopics at nifl.gov
Subject: USA Learns Concern


Hello,

USA Learns looks like it could be a wonderful resource. However, I feel uneasy about some of the statements about how users' information could be used.  
 
I have a concern about the confidentiality and security of student information, particularly if users of the site don't carefully read the privacy policy.
 
Can you please comment on the quote below from the USA Learns website?  I have placed asterisks around the key parts of the quote.
 
The USA Learns website's "About" page states:
 
"Be aware that **any personal information you might disclose**, including performance records of Learners, in the process of using the Courses, Units, Lessons, and Activities provided on the Site **should be considered public information** even though some of this information is accessible only with proper sign-in identification.  The Sacramento County Office of Education encourages you to be cautious about incorporating personal information in Lessons and Activities available on the Site.
 
"Are there any **circumstances in which The Sacramento County Office of Education would disclose information to third parties**?

Under normal circumstances, The Sacramento County Office of Education does not disclose information to third parties.  **Exceptional circumstances could include**: 

Protecting the integrity and security of our Site 

Precautions against liability 

Protection of the safety, rights, or property of users or others 

**Response to requirements of the judicial process or, to the extent permitted by law, requests of law enforcement or public safety agencies**.

Even in these circumstances, **we would release your account information only if we felt it was reasonably necessary**."


Thanks very much for responding to this question.

Betsy Rubin
Chicago, IL

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