BP 4132/4232/4332Publication or Creation of Materials

The School Board recognizes that District employees and students may create copyrightable materials either at work, at home, or both at work and at home. The development of copyrightable materials during, or in part during, the work/school day must be approved by the Superintendent. However, the Superintendent's approval or lack of approval shall not affect the District's ownership of copyrights for materials developed during work/school hours.

Materials written or developed by an employee or student during the normal work/school day, or with District assets and resources, including grant funds, are considered District property.

Materials developed during both work/school and leisure hours are owned jointly by the employee/student and the District. In such cases, the Superintendent shall ensure that a contractual agreement is made, clarifying the joint ownership. A partnership entity may be created to hold the copyright on behalf of both parties.

The Board may secure copyrights in the name of the District for all copyrightable works developed by the District. All royalties or revenues from these copyrights shall be used for the benefit of the District.

Legal Reference:

FEDERAL COPYRIGHT LAW
17 U.S.C., 201 and 201(a)