With the advent of the Internet and computer technology, today's students enjoy access to every part of the globe. Communications that once took weeks are now instantaneous. This is a far different world from the one most school administrators grew up in and, in most cases, it is an area where the knowledge of students far exceeds that of teachers, administrators, and school board members. Therefore it is imperative that school officials, especially school administrators, keep current on the latest technology developments. Although the Internet is an invaluable research and learning tool, it also places a tremendous responsibility on schools to scrutinize how students and staff members use school computers and e-mail systems. As legislatures and courts try to keep pace with technology, each day seems to bring new regulations and lawsuits. By taking a detailed look at the ability of schools and school districts to regulate the use of school computers and electronic communications--by students and staff members--this edition of "A Legal Memorandum" will bring school administrators up to date on the legal and practical aspects of monitoring and regulating computer use within their schools. In addition, the duty to safeguard school records and property that are stored via computer databases will also be examined.