Privacy Policy
Last Updated: May 2026
Big Walnut Local Schools ("BWLS," "we," "our," or "the District") is committed to protecting the privacy of our students, families, staff, and community members. This Privacy Policy explains how information is collected, used, and protected when you visit and interact with our website.
Information We Collect
When you visit our website, we may collect certain information automatically, including:
- Internet Protocol (IP) address
- Browser type and version
- Device information
- Pages visited and time spent on the website
- Referral sources and website usage statistics
If you choose to submit information through website forms, we may collect:
- Name
- Email address
- Phone number
- Mailing address
- Information provided in messages, requests, registrations, or applications
How We Use Information
Information collected through the website may be used to:
- Respond to inquiries and requests
- Provide information about District programs, services, and events
- Improve website functionality and user experience
- Analyze website traffic and performance
- Communicate important District information
- Fulfill legal and operational requirements
Student Privacy
Big Walnut Local Schools complies with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and other applicable federal and state laws regarding student records and educational information. Student educational records are protected and are not disclosed except as permitted by law. Parents and eligible students have specific rights regarding access to and protection of educational records. For additional information, please contact the District's Student Services Department.
Children's Privacy
The District is committed to protecting the privacy of children online. Our website is intended to provide information about District programs, services, and activities. When applicable, the District complies with the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) and works with educational technology providers that are required to comply with applicable student privacy laws.
Cookies and Analytics
Our website may use cookies and similar technologies to enhance user experience, remember preferences, and gather website analytics. These tools help us understand how visitors use our website and improve its functionality.
Users may modify browser settings to decline cookies; however, some website features may not function properly if cookies are disabled.
Third-Party Services and Links
The District website may contain links to third-party websites, applications, social media platforms, and services. These external sites maintain their own privacy policies and practices. Big Walnut Local Schools is not responsible for the content, security, or privacy practices of external websites.
Some District services may utilize third-party providers to support communication, enrollment, transportation, payments, athletics, or educational programs. These providers are expected to comply with applicable privacy and security requirements.
Public Records
As a public school district, certain records and communications may be subject to Ohio Public Records Law. Information submitted through the website may be retained and disclosed as required by applicable law.
Security
Big Walnut Local Schools takes reasonable measures to protect information collected through the website from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction. However, no internet transmission or electronic storage system can be guaranteed to be completely secure.
Information Submitted Through Forms
Visitors may voluntarily provide information through online forms available on the District website. Depending on the purpose of the form, information collected may include:
- Student name
- Parent or guardian name
- Email address
- Telephone number
- Grade level
- School attended
- Other information necessary to fulfill the purpose of the form
Information submitted through website forms is used only for the purpose for which it was collected and may be retained in accordance with District records retention schedules and applicable laws.
Website Analytics
Big Walnut Local Schools uses Google Analytics and similar tools to better understand how visitors use the website. These services may collect information such as:
- Pages viewed
- Time spent on pages
- Browser and device information
- General geographic location
- Referral sources
This information is aggregated and does not typically identify individual visitors. Analytics data is used to improve website performance, content, and user experience.
Third-Party Services
Certain services linked from or embedded within the District website may be provided by third-party vendors. Examples may include employment application systems, event registration platforms, payment portals, educational service providers, or other online resources.
When users access a third-party service, they are subject to the privacy practices and terms of that provider. Users are encouraged to review the privacy policies of any third-party services they choose to use.
Artificial Intelligence Tools
The District website may include artificial intelligence (AI) tools designed to help visitors locate information and navigate website content. Questions or information submitted through these tools may be processed by third-party technology providers and may be logged for quality assurance, troubleshooting, and service improvement purposes.
Users should not submit confidential personal information, student records, medical information, Social Security numbers, or other sensitive data through AI-powered tools.
Changes to This Policy
The District reserves the right to update this Privacy Policy at any time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated effective date.
Contact Information
Questions regarding this Privacy Policy may be directed to:
Big Walnut Local Schools
110 Tippett Court
Sunbury, Ohio 43074
Email: socialmedia@bwls.net
Phone: (740) 965-3010
By using the Big Walnut Local Schools website, you acknowledge and agree to the terms of this Privacy Policy.