Privacy Policy

1. Introduction

The Public Lyceum is committed to protecting the privacy and security of personal information collected from users of our website and services. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard information provided by visitors, community members, and partners.

This website is operated by Pieces of a Dream Foundation, Inc., a registered nonprofit organization. As a public education initiative, we are dedicated to maintaining the trust and confidence of the communities we serve.

2. Information We Collect

We collect information that you provide directly to us through forms, inquiries, and communications. This may include:

Name: Used to address you and personalize communications.
Email Address: Used to respond to inquiries and provide requested information.
Phone Number: Collected when you choose to provide it for SMS communications or callback requests.
Organization: If applicable, for partnership or community resource inquiries.
Message Content: Any information you voluntarily provide through contact forms or inquiries.

We do not collect sensitive personal information such as Social Security numbers, financial account details, or health information unless voluntarily provided for specific educational programs.

3. How Information Is Used

Information collected is used solely for the following purposes:

To respond to inquiries and provide requested resources or information
To communicate about educational events, public sessions, or community programs
To send educational materials and resources you have requested
To process partnership inquiries and community collaboration requests
To improve website functionality and user experience
To maintain records of community engagement and educational outreach

We do not use collected information for commercial marketing or advertising purposes.

4. SMS Communication Disclosure

Important Notice:

By providing your phone number, you consent to receive text messages from The Public Lyceum related to your inquiries, event participation, and requested information. Message frequency may vary. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out at any time. For assistance, reply HELP or visit https://www.thepubliclyceum.org/sms-terms.

SMS consent is not shared with third parties or affiliates for marketing purposes. View our full SMS Terms of Service at https://www.thepubliclyceum.org/sms-terms.

Message Frequency: Message frequency varies based on user interaction and the nature of requested information. Users will only receive messages related to their specific inquiries or opt-in selections.

Opt-In Requirement: SMS messages are only sent to users who have explicitly opted in by providing their phone number through our forms or direct request. We do not send unsolicited text messages.

Opt-Out: Users may opt out of SMS communications at any time by replying STOP to any message received. Upon receiving a STOP request, we will cease sending SMS messages to that number.

5. Information Sharing

We do not sell, rent, or trade personal information. Your information is used internally to provide requested services and respond to inquiries.

Limited sharing may occur only in the following circumstances:

Legal Requirements: When required by law, court order, or governmental authority.
Protection of Rights: When necessary to protect the rights, property, or safety of The Public Lyceum, our users, or the public.
Service Providers: With trusted service providers who assist in operating our website, provided they agree to maintain confidentiality and use information only for authorized purposes.

We do not share personal information with third parties for marketing, advertising, or commercial purposes.

6. Data Security

The Public Lyceum employs reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect personal information against unauthorized access, disclosure, or destruction.

Security measures include:

Secure socket layer (SSL) encryption for data transmission
Access controls limiting employee and contractor access to personal information
Regular review and updates of security practices
Secure storage of physical and electronic records

While we make reasonable efforts to protect user information, no data transmission over the internet or electronic storage system can be guaranteed to be 100% secure.

7. User Rights

Users have the following rights regarding their personal information:

Access: Request a copy of personal information we hold about you.
Correction: Request correction of inaccurate or incomplete information.
Deletion: Request deletion of personal information, subject to legal retention requirements.
Opt-Out: Opt out of SMS communications at any time by replying STOP.
Unsubscribe: Unsubscribe from email communications using links in our emails or by contacting us directly.

To exercise any of these rights, please contact us using the information provided in the Contact section below.

8. Cookies and Website Usage

Our website may use cookies and similar technologies to improve user experience and analyze website usage. Cookies are small text files stored on your device when you visit our website.

Types of Cookies Used:

Essential Cookies: Required for basic website functionality.
Analytics Cookies: Help us understand how visitors use our website to improve functionality.

Users may control or disable cookies through their browser settings. Disabling cookies may affect certain website features.

9. Contact Information

For questions about this Privacy Policy, to exercise your rights, or to submit privacy-related requests:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (984) 260-3000

Location: Raleigh, North Carolina

10. Policy Updates

This Privacy Policy may be updated periodically to reflect changes in our practices, technology, or legal requirements. When updates are made, the revision date at the top of this policy will be updated.

We encourage users to review this Privacy Policy periodically. Continued use of our website and services after any changes constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.