[Visualpython-users] High School Network Security

[FRANCESCO N. <fno...@kl...>]

Hello everyone,

I am a high school physics teacher who is planning post-AP exam student=20=

projects using VPython=2E  However, my school refuses to allow Python and=20=

VPython to be installed on the school's network because it is open=20
source=2E

Here's the reply from the technology coodinator at my school:

"Our technology team discussed your request to install VPython on the=20
network/lab at our May 4th meeting and all agreed that it is not good=20
practice to install open source software on the school computer systems=2E=
 =20
We have conferred with LHRIC and a random sampling of other districts and=20=

all agree it is not in the district's best interest to do so, even thought=
=20
there is no doubt your intended goal is worthy=2E"

[LHRIC is a technology-oriented consortium of local school districts=20
<http://www=2Elhric=2Eorg>]

Is this really a problem=3F  What are the risks=3F  Is there any way to=20=

prevent student misuse of Python=3F  How can I make a case to allow Python=
=20
in school=3F

FYI, we have a Novell Zenworks network for XP and Win98 machines=2E  We al=
so=20
have Citrix in XP=2E

Many thanks in advance for all your help=2E

Frank Noschese
Physics Teacher
John Jay High School
Cross River, NY

fnoschese@klschools=2Eorg
*****************************
Frank Noschese
Physics Teacher

John Jay High School
Cross River, NY

fnoschese@klschools=2Eorg
voicemail: (914) 763-7384
*****************************