TERMS OF USE

Welcome to the iNERDE Learning Community! 🎓

These Terms of Use ("Terms") govern your access to and use of the websites located at www.inerde.org and academy.inerde.org (collectively, the "Sites"), including the iNERDE Academy digital learning platform (the "Platform"), and all related services, features, and content provided by iNERDE INC. ("iNERDE," "we," "us," or "our").

IMPORTANT: By accessing or using our Sites or Platform, you agree to be bound by these Terms. If you don't agree with these Terms, please don't use our services.

PLEASE CAREFULLY READ SECTION 17 (DISPUTE RESOLUTION), WHICH CONTAINS AN ARBITRATION AGREEMENT, CLASS ACTION WAIVER, AND JURY TRIAL WAIVER. THESE PROVISIONS AFFECT YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS AND REQUIRE MOST DISPUTES TO BE RESOLVED THROUGH BINDING ARBITRATION RATHER THAN IN COURT.

YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO OPT OUT OF THE ARBITRATION AGREEMENT WITHIN 30 DAYS OF FIRST ACCEPTING THESE TERMS. SEE SECTION 17.2(f) FOR OPT-OUT INSTRUCTIONS.

Table of Contents

Who Can Use iNERDE

Special Notice for Parents and Guardians

Your iNERDE Account

How to Use iNERDE (The Fun Stuff!)

Content You Create and Share

Our Educational Content

Community Guidelines and Acceptable Use

Payment Terms

Sira AI Tutor - Important Information

NerdyCoins, XP, and Gamification

Intellectual Property Rights

Privacy and Your Information

Third-Party Links and Services

Disclaimers and Limitation of Liability

Changes to These Terms

Termination

Dispute Resolution and Governing Law 

General Provisions 

Contact Us

1. WHO CAN USE iNERDE

1.1 Age Requirements

iNERDE serves students in grades K-12, which means we welcome learners of all ages from approximately 5 to 18 years old. However, different rules apply depending on your age:

If you are under 13 years old: You may only use iNERDE if your parent or legal guardian has created an account on your behalf and consented to your use of our services. Your parent or guardian is responsible for your activities on the Platform.

If you are 13-17 years old: You may create your own account, but your parent or legal guardian must review and consent to these Terms before you use our services.

If you are 18 or older: You may create an account and use our services as an adult user. If you are a facilitator, teacher, or parent, additional terms may apply.

1.2 COPPA Compliance

iNERDE complies with the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act ("COPPA"). We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13 without verifiable parental consent. For more information about how we handle children's information, please see our Privacy Policy.

1.3 Account Authority

By creating an account or using our services, you represent and warrant that:

You have the legal capacity to enter into these Terms

If you're creating an account for a child under 13, you are their parent or legal guardian

All information you provide is accurate and current

You will maintain the accuracy of this information

2. SPECIAL NOTICE FOR PARENTS AND GUARDIANS

2.1 Your Responsibility

If you are a parent or legal guardian permitting a child under 18 to use iNERDE, you are fully responsible for:

Establishing rules for your child's use of iNERDE

Supervising your child's access to and use of the Platform

All activities that occur under your child's account

Any fees or charges incurred through your child's account

Ensuring your child complies with these Terms

2.2 Parental Consent for Children Under 13

For children under 13, we require verifiable parental consent before collecting, using, or disclosing personal information. By creating an account for your child, you:

Consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of your child's information as described in our Privacy Policy

Agree to these Terms on behalf of your child

Understand that you may review, modify, or delete your child's information by contacting us

2.3 Monitoring Content

We encourage parents and guardians to:

Actively participate in your child's learning journey

Review content your child creates and shares

Communicate with facilitators and teachers about your child's progress

Contact us if you have any concerns about content or interactions

3. YOUR iNERDE ACCOUNT

3.1 Account Types

iNERDE offers different account types for different members of our learning community:

Student Accounts (for learners in grades K-12)

Facilitator Accounts (for community learning pod leaders)

Teacher Accounts (for educators in formal school settings)

Parent/Guardian Accounts (for monitoring children's progress)

3.2 Account Creation and Security

When you create an account, you must:

Provide accurate, complete, and current information

Maintain and promptly update your account information

Keep your password secure and confidential

Notify us immediately of any unauthorized access or security breach

Not share your account credentials with others

Not create multiple accounts for the same person

You are responsible for all activities that occur under your account, whether or not you authorized them.

3.3 Account for Minors

Parents/guardians creating accounts for children under 13 will have full access to manage, monitor, and control their child's account

Students aged 13-17 may have parent-linked accounts that allow parental oversight

We reserve the right to require additional verification for accounts created by or for minors

4. HOW TO USE iNERDE (THE FUN STUFF!)

4.1 License Grant

Subject to these Terms and your compliance with them, we grant you a limited, non-exclusive, non-transferable, revocable license to access and use the Sites and Platform solely for your personal, non-commercial educational purposes.

4.2 What You Can Do

On www.inerde.org, you can:

Learn about iNERDE's mission and programs

Access general educational resources

Read blog posts and success stories

Contact us for information

Explore partnership opportunities

On academy.inerde.org (the Platform), you can:

Access STEM education courses and content

Complete assignments and projects

Upload your work (assignments, projects, and creative content)

Participate in forums and community discussions

Chat and collaborate with classmates and educators

Interact with Sira and Sira Pro (our AI tutors)

Earn NerdyCoins, XP, and track your progress

Join learning pods and study groups

Access culturally-contextualized content in multiple languages

4.3 Usage Restrictions

The rights granted to you in these Terms are subject to the following restrictions. You agree NOT to:

General Restrictions:

Use the Sites or Platform for any unlawful purpose

License, sell, rent, lease, transfer, assign, distribute, host, or otherwise commercially exploit the Sites or Platform

Modify, make derivative works of, disassemble, reverse compile, or reverse engineer any part of the Sites or Platform

Access the Sites or Platform to build a similar or competitive service

Copy, reproduce, distribute, republish, download, display, post, or transmit any content except as expressly permitted

Remove, alter, or obscure any copyright, trademark, or proprietary notices

Content Restrictions:

Upload, post, or share content that is illegal, harmful, threatening, abusive, harassing, defamatory, vulgar, obscene, or otherwise objectionable

Impersonate any person or entity

Share content that infringes on intellectual property rights

Share content that contains viruses, malware, or harmful code

Bully, harass, or threaten other users

Share inappropriate content with minors

Technical Restrictions:

Interfere with or disrupt the Sites, Platform, or servers

Attempt to gain unauthorized access to any accounts, systems, or networks

Use any automated systems (bots, scrapers, etc.) to access the Platform

Collect or harvest information about other users

Circumvent any security features or access controls

Overload, flood, or spam the Platform

4.4 Modification of Services

We reserve the right, at any time, to modify, suspend, or discontinue the Sites or Platform (in whole or in part) with or without notice to you. You agree that iNERDE will not be liable to you or to any third party for any modification, suspension, or discontinuation of the Sites or Platform or any part thereof.

4.5 Support and Maintenance

Support for the Services is provided based on your program enrollment and account type. We will make reasonable efforts to provide technical assistance and maintain service availability, but we do not guarantee uninterrupted access or error-free operation. Any future release, update, or other addition to functionality of the Sites or Platform shall be subject to these Terms.

5. CONTENT YOU CREATE AND SHARE

5.1 User Content on the Platform

On the iNERDE Academy Platform, you may create, upload, and share various types of content, including:

Assignments and homework submissions

Projects and presentations

Forum posts and comments

Messages and chat communications

Profile information and photos

Creative works (art, writing, code, etc.)

This content is referred to as "User Content."

5.2 Your Rights and Responsibilities

When you share User Content on the Platform, you represent and warrant that:

You own or have permission to use and share the content

Your content doesn't violate these Terms or any applicable laws

Your content doesn't infringe on anyone's intellectual property rights

Your content is appropriate for an educational environment serving children

If your content includes images of people, you have permission to share those images

You assume all risks associated with your User Content, including any reliance on its accuracy, completeness, or usefulness by others

5.3 License Grant to iNERDE

You hereby grant (and you represent and warrant that you have the right to grant) to iNERDE an irrevocable, non-exclusive, royalty-free, and fully paid, worldwide license to reproduce, distribute, publicly display and perform, prepare derivative works of, incorporate into other works, and otherwise use and exploit your User Content, and to grant sublicenses of the foregoing rights, solely for the purposes of:

Providing the Services and improving the Platform

Operating iNERDE's educational mission

Showcasing exemplary student work in promotional materials (with appropriate consent)

You hereby irrevocably waive (and agree to cause to be waived) any claims and assertions of moral rights or attribution with respect to your User Content.

Important: This license is limited to operating and improving the Platform and iNERDE's educational mission. We will not sell your creative work or use it for commercial purposes outside of iNERDE's nonprofit educational activities.

5.4 Content Moderation

We reserve the right (but have no obligation) to:

Review, monitor, or remove User Content at any time

Remove content that violates these Terms

Remove content that we deem inappropriate for our learning community

Suspend or terminate accounts that repeatedly violate our guidelines

Report illegal content or behavior to appropriate authorities

We use a combination of automated tools and human review to moderate content, but we cannot guarantee that we will identify all problematic content.

iNERDE does not endorse, support, represent, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any User Content. You understand that by using the Platform, you may be exposed to content that you find offensive, inappropriate, or disagreeable. We are not responsible for User Content created by others.

6. OUR EDUCATIONAL CONTENT

6.1 iNERDE's Ownership

All content created by iNERDE, including but not limited to courses, lessons, videos, images, text, graphics, logos, and software (collectively, "iNERDE Content"), is owned by iNERDE INC. or our licensors and is protected by copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property laws.

Excluding any User Content that you may provide, you acknowledge that all the intellectual property rights, including copyrights, patents, trademarks, and trade secrets, in the Sites, Platform, and iNERDE Content are owned by iNERDE or iNERDE's suppliers. Neither these Terms (nor your access to the Sites or Platform) transfers to you or any third party any rights, title, or interest in or to such intellectual property rights, except for the limited access rights expressly set forth in Section 4.1. iNERDE and its suppliers reserve all rights not granted in these Terms. There are no implied licenses granted under these Terms.

6.2 Educational Philosophy

iNERDE provides STEM education focused on:

Experiential, hands-on learning

Culturally-contextualized content relevant to African learners

Critical thinking and problem-solving skills

Global workforce readiness

Building a "nerdy-attitude" toward learning

6.3 "Best Effort" Approach

Important Educational Disclaimer:

iNERDE operates on a "best effort" basis. This means:

No Guaranteed Outcomes: We cannot guarantee specific learning outcomes, academic achievements, test scores, or career success. Educational success depends on many factors including student effort, prior knowledge, learning environment, and individual circumstances.

Content Accuracy: While we strive to provide accurate, up-to-date, and high-quality educational content, we are a best-effort educational program. Content may contain errors or become outdated. We use experiential learning approaches that emphasize process over perfection.

Not a Substitute: iNERDE programs supplement but do not replace formal education. We are not accredited as a school and do not grant diplomas, degrees, or official academic credentials.

Language and Localization: We work to provide culturally-contextualized content in multiple languages, but translation quality may vary. Content is continuously improved based on feedback.

6.4 Use of iNERDE Content

You may access and use iNERDE Content solely for your personal educational purposes. You may NOT:

Republish, redistribute, or sell iNERDE Content

Modify or create derivative works without permission

Remove copyright or attribution notices

Use iNERDE Content for commercial purposes

Share account access to allow unauthorized use of content

6.5 Feedback

If you provide iNERDE with any feedback or suggestions regarding the Sites or Platform ("Feedback"), you hereby assign to iNERDE all rights in such Feedback and agree that iNERDE shall have the right to use and fully exploit such Feedback and related information in any manner it deems appropriate. iNERDE will treat any Feedback you provide to iNERDE as non-confidential and non-proprietary. You agree that you will not submit to iNERDE any information or ideas that you consider to be confidential or proprietary.

7. COMMUNITY GUIDELINES AND ACCEPTABLE USE

7.1 Our Learning Community Values

iNERDE is built on values of respect, curiosity, collaboration, and growth. We expect all community members to:

Be Respectful: Treat others with kindness and dignity

Be Curious: Ask questions and embrace learning

Be Supportive: Help fellow learners grow

Be Honest: Do your own work and give credit to others

Be Safe: Protect your privacy and the privacy of others

Be Inclusive: Welcome diverse perspectives and backgrounds

7.2 Prohibited Conduct

In addition to the restrictions in Section 4.3, you specifically agree NOT to:

Regarding Other Users:

Bully, harass, intimidate, or threaten others

Post discriminatory, hateful, or offensive content

Share private information about others without consent

Contact minors inappropriately (for adult users)

Engage in romantic or sexual communication with minors

Share sexually explicit or suggestive content

Regarding Academic Integrity:

Plagiarize or claim others' work as your own

Help others cheat or violate academic integrity

Share test answers or assignment solutions inappropriately

Use AI tools to complete work without attribution (when required)

Regarding Platform Safety:

Share login credentials

Attempt to access others' accounts

Upload viruses, malware, or harmful code

Spam, flood, or disrupt Platform functionality

Collect data about other users

7.3 Reporting Concerns

If you see content or behavior that violates these guidelines:

Students: Tell your parent, guardian, teacher, or facilitator

Adults: Report directly to iNERDE at [[email protected]]

Urgent Safety Concerns: Contact local authorities first, then notify us

We take safety seriously and will investigate all reports.

7.4 Consequences

Violations may result in:

Warning and content removal

Temporary account suspension

Permanent account termination

Referral to law enforcement (for serious violations)

Loss of any paid fees (non-refundable)

8. PAYMENT TERMS

8.1 Free and Paid Services

iNERDE offers both free and paid educational services:

Free Access: General website content and certain Platform features

Paid Programs: Learning pods, advanced courses, and premium features may require payment

8.2 Parent Contributions

For students enrolled in paid programs, parent contributions typically range from $5-20 per month (or local currency equivalent). These contributions help sustain our programs and are processed as follows:

Payment Methods:

Cash payments through authorized facilitators or learning pod leaders

Other methods as available and communicated to you

Payment Schedule:

Payments are typically due monthly at the beginning of each learning period

Specific payment schedules will be communicated upon enrollment

8.3 No Refunds

All payments are final and non-refundable. However:

If you need to discontinue participation, we may apply your payment toward another iNERDE program or learning period, subject to availability and our approval

Requests to transfer payments must be submitted in writing to [[email protected]]

We are not obligated to provide credits or transfers

8.4 Corporate Sponsorships

Corporate sponsorships and partnerships are governed by separate written agreements and are not covered by these Terms.

8.5 Fee Changes

We reserve the right to change our fees at any time. We will provide advance notice of any fee changes, and changes will apply to future payment periods only.

8.6 Late Payment and Non-Payment

Late payments may result in interruption of Platform access

Continued non-payment may result in account suspension or termination

Outstanding balances remain due even after account termination

9. SIRA AI TUTOR - IMPORTANT INFORMATION

9.1 What is Sira?

Sira and Sira Pro are AI-powered tutors integrated into the iNERDE Academy Platform designed to:

Answer student questions

Provide explanations and learning support

Help facilitators and teachers with instructional planning

Offer personalized learning guidance

9.2 AI Limitations and Disclaimers

IMPORTANT: AI CAN MAKE MISTAKES

You understand and agree that:

AI Is Not Perfect: Sira is an artificial intelligence system that can make errors, provide inaccurate information, or misunderstand questions. Always verify important information with teachers, facilitators, or reliable sources.

Not a Human Tutor: Sira is a supplemental learning tool, not a replacement for human instruction, supervision, or guidance.

Educational Tool Only: Sira is designed for educational support. Do not rely on Sira for:

Medical, legal, or professional advice

Safety-critical decisions

Personal counseling or mental health support

Emergency situations

Supervision Required: For students under 13, parent or guardian supervision of Sira interactions is recommended.

No Guarantee of Accuracy: We make reasonable efforts to ensure Sira provides helpful responses, but we do not guarantee accuracy, completeness, or reliability of Sira's output.

Evolving Technology: Sira's capabilities and features may change over time as we improve the technology.

9.3 Appropriate Use of Sira

When using Sira, you should:

Use Sira as a learning aid, not as a shortcut to avoid learning

Ask thoughtful questions to deepen understanding

Verify Sira's responses through independent learning

Report errors or inappropriate responses to educators

Not attempt to manipulate or "jailbreak" the AI

Not use Sira to generate content that violates our policies

9.4 Content Generated by Sira

Content generated by Sira:

Is created by an AI system based on patterns in training data

May reflect biases present in training data

Should not be considered authoritative without verification

May be monitored or reviewed for quality improvement

May not be used outside the Platform without permission

10. NERDYCOINS, XP, AND GAMIFICATION

10.1 Virtual Currency and Rewards

The iNERDE Academy Platform includes gamification features such as:

NerdyCoins: Virtual currency earned through learning activities

XP (Experience Points): Points that track learning progress

Tiers and Badges: Recognition levels (Bronze Brainiac to Diamond Discoverer)

Hive of Innovation: Progression system for achievements

10.2 No Real-World Value

IMPORTANT: NerdyCoins, XP, and all other virtual items or currency:

Have NO real-world monetary value

Cannot be exchanged for cash or real goods/services

Cannot be transferred between accounts

Cannot be bought or sold outside the Platform

May be revoked or modified at our discretion

Are only valid within iNERDE programs

10.3 Earning and Using Virtual Currency

Virtual currency is earned by completing educational activities, projects, and challenges

Virtual currency may be used within the Platform for features we designate (such as unlocking bonus content, customizing profiles, or accessing special challenges)

We reserve the right to modify earning rates, redemption options, and features at any time

Virtual currency has no expiration date unless we notify you otherwise

10.4 Account Termination

Upon account termination (by you or by us), all virtual currency, XP, badges, and progress will be forfeited without compensation.

11. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS

11.1 iNERDE's Intellectual Property

All rights, title, and interest in and to the Sites, Platform, and iNERDE Content, including all intellectual property rights, are and will remain the exclusive property of iNERDE INC. and our licensors.

This includes but is not limited to:

The iNERDE name, logos, and trademarks

The Bee Nerdy mascot and related branding

Website design, Platform architecture, and user interfaces

Courses, lessons, educational content, and materials

Software, code, algorithms, and technology

Graphics, images, videos, and multimedia content

Sira AI tutor and related AI technology

11.2 Trademarks

"iNERDE," "iNERDE Academy," "Sira," "Bee Nerdy," "Hive of Innovation," and related marks are trademarks or registered trademarks of iNERDE INC. You may not use these marks without our prior written permission.

11.3 DMCA and Copyright Complaints

We respect intellectual property rights. If you believe content on our Platform infringes your copyright, please contact us at:

DMCA Agent:
iNERDE INC.
PO Box 783
Stoughton, MA 02072
United States
Email: [[email protected]]

Your notice must include:

Identification of the copyrighted work

Identification of the infringing material and its location

Your contact information

A statement that you have a good faith belief the use is unauthorized

A statement that your notice is accurate and you're authorized to act on behalf of the copyright owner

Your physical or electronic signature

We will respond to valid notices in accordance with the Digital Millennium Copyright Act.

12. PRIVACY AND YOUR INFORMATION

12.1 Privacy Policy

Your privacy is important to us. Our collection, use, and disclosure of personal information is governed by our Privacy Policy, which is incorporated into these Terms by reference.

By using iNERDE, you consent to our Privacy Policy and our data practices as described therein.

12.2 Student Privacy

We are committed to protecting student privacy in accordance with:

Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) principles

Applicable African data protection laws

Education industry best practices

12.3 Data Security

While we implement reasonable security measures to protect your information, no system is completely secure. You understand and accept the inherent security risks of providing information online.

12.4 Your Privacy Responsibilities

You are responsible for:

Maintaining the confidentiality of your account credentials

Not sharing personal information about others without consent

Reviewing privacy settings and controls

Supervising children's information sharing (for parents/guardians)

13. THIRD-PARTY LINKS AND SERVICES

13.1 Third-Party Content

The Sites and Platform may contain links to third-party websites, services, or resources that are not owned or controlled by iNERDE.

13.2 No Endorsement

We do not endorse or assume responsibility for any third-party sites, services, information, materials, products, or services. You acknowledge and agree that:

We are not responsible for the availability or accuracy of third-party sites

We are not liable for any content, advertising, products, or materials on third-party sites

Third-party sites have their own terms and privacy policies

Your use of third-party sites is at your own risk

13.3 External Educational Resources

We may reference or link to external educational resources. While we strive to recommend quality resources, we cannot verify or guarantee their continued quality, accuracy, or appropriateness.

14. DISCLAIMERS AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

14.1 "AS IS" and "AS Available"

TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, iNERDE PROVIDES THE SITES, PLATFORM, AND ALL SERVICES ON AN "AS IS" AND "AS AVAILABLE" BASIS WITHOUT WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED.

We specifically disclaim all warranties, including but not limited to:

Warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and non-infringement

Warranties that the Sites or Platform will be uninterrupted, timely, secure, or error-free

Warranties regarding the accuracy, reliability, completeness, or quality of content

Warranties regarding specific educational outcomes or results

Warranties that the Sites or Platform will meet your requirements or be free of viruses or other harmful code

14.2 Educational Services Disclaimer

iNERDE IS A BEST-EFFORT EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM. We do not warrant or guarantee:

Specific learning outcomes or academic achievement

Improvement in grades, test scores, or academic performance

Admission to schools, programs, or employment opportunities

That our content is error-free or complete

That our Platform will always be available or functional

That Sira AI will provide accurate or helpful responses

14.3 User Content Disclaimer

We are not responsible for User Content, including:

Accuracy, quality, or legality of User Content

Interactions between users

Offensive, inappropriate, or harmful content posted by users

14.4 Limitation of Liability

TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, iNERDE, ITS OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, PARTNERS, AGENTS, AND AFFILIATES SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES, OR ANY LOSS OF PROFITS, REVENUE, DATA, OR USE, WHETHER IN CONTRACT, TORT, OR OTHERWISE, ARISING FROM OR RELATED TO:

Your use or inability to use the Sites or Platform

Any content obtained from the Sites or Platform

Unauthorized access to or alteration of your content or data

Statements or conduct of any third party on the Platform

Any other matter relating to the Sites or Platform

IN NO EVENT SHALL iNERDE'S TOTAL LIABILITY EXCEED THE AMOUNT YOU PAID TO iNERDE IN THE TWELVE (12) MONTHS PRECEDING THE EVENT GIVING RISE TO LIABILITY, OR ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($100), WHICHEVER IS GREATER.

14.5 Basis of the Bargain

You acknowledge that iNERDE has set its prices and entered into these Terms in reliance upon the disclaimers and limitations of liability set forth herein, and that they form an essential basis of the bargain between you and iNERDE.

14.6 Jurisdictional Limitations

Some jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of certain warranties or liabilities. In such jurisdictions, our liability is limited to the maximum extent permitted by law.

15. CHANGES TO THESE TERMS

15.1 Right to Modify

We reserve the right to modify these Terms at any time. When we make changes, we will:

Update the "Last Updated" date at the top of these Terms

Provide notice of material changes through the Platform or by email

Give you an opportunity to review the changes before they take effect

15.2 Your Acceptance

By continuing to use the Sites or Platform after changes take effect, you agree to be bound by the revised Terms. If you don't agree with the changes, you must stop using our services.

15.3 Material Changes Affecting Minors

For material changes that affect children under 13, we will seek renewed parental consent as required by law.

16. TERMINATION

16.1 Termination by You

You may terminate your account at any time by:

Using account deletion features in your account settings

Contacting us at [[email protected]]

Upon termination, you will lose access to your account, content, and any virtual currency or progress.

16.2 Termination by iNERDE

We may suspend or terminate your access to the Sites or Platform at any time, with or without cause or notice, including if:

You violate these Terms

You engage in fraudulent or illegal activity

You pose a risk to other users or the Platform

Your account has been inactive for an extended period

We discontinue the Platform or specific features

Required by law or legal process

16.3 Effect of Termination

Upon termination:

Your license to use the Sites and Platform immediately ends

You must cease all use of iNERDE services

We may delete your account and User Content

Provisions that should survive termination will survive (including warranties, indemnities, limitations of liability, and dispute resolution)

You remain liable for any obligations incurred before termination

No refunds will be provided for paid services

16.4 No Refunds Upon Termination

Termination of your account, whether by you or by us, does not entitle you to any refund of fees paid.

17. DISPUTE RESOLUTION AND GOVERNING LAW

PLEASE READ THIS SECTION CAREFULLY. IT AFFECTS YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS, INCLUDING YOUR RIGHT TO FILE A LAWSUIT IN COURT.

17.1 Governing Law

These Terms are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, United States, without regard to its conflict of laws principles.

17.2 Arbitration Agreement

This Section includes an arbitration agreement and class action waiver that applies to all disputes under these Terms. Please read it carefully.

(a) Applicability of Arbitration Agreement

You agree that any dispute, claim, or controversy between you and iNERDE relating in any way to the Sites, the Platform, the Services, or these Terms (collectively, "Disputes") will be resolved by binding arbitration, rather than in court, except that:

You and iNERDE may assert individualized claims in small claims court if the claims qualify, remain in such court, and advance solely on an individual, non-class basis; and

You or iNERDE may seek equitable relief in court for infringement or other misuse of intellectual property rights (such as trademarks, trade dress, domain names, trade secrets, copyrights, and patents).

This Arbitration Agreement shall survive the expiration or termination of these Terms and shall apply, without limitation, to all Disputes that arose or were asserted before you agreed to these Terms or any prior version of these Terms.

For Parents of Children Under 13: This arbitration agreement applies to disputes involving your child's use of our Services to the extent you have consented to these Terms on your child's behalf.

(b) Informal Dispute Resolution

Before either party commences arbitration (or initiates an action in small claims court if a party so elects), we require that you first attempt to resolve the Dispute informally by contacting us to seek a resolution.

Notice Requirement: The party initiating a Dispute must give written notice to the other party ("Notice") describing:

The nature of the Dispute

The relief sought

Contact information

Informal Dispute Resolution Conference: Within 45 days after the other party receives the Notice (or a mutually agreed extension), the parties will personally meet and confer telephonically or via videoconference in a good faith effort to resolve the Dispute informally.

Notice to iNERDE should be sent to:
Email: [[email protected]]
Mail: iNERDE INC., [PO Box 783
Stoughton, MA 02072
United States
Subject: "Dispute Resolution Notice"

You must complete this informal dispute resolution process before initiating arbitration. This requirement is a condition precedent to commencing arbitration, and the arbitrator will dismiss the arbitration if you fail to comply.

(c) Arbitration Rules and Forum

If the Informal Dispute Resolution Process does not resolve the Dispute satisfactorily within 60 days after receipt of the Notice, either party may initiate binding arbitration.

Arbitration Administration: The arbitration will be conducted by the American Arbitration Association ("AAA") under its Consumer Arbitration Rules then in effect, except as modified by this Arbitration Agreement.

Arbitration Location: Unless you and iNERDE otherwise agree, the arbitration will be conducted in the county where you reside or, if you prefer, by telephone or videoconference.

Arbitration Fees:

For Disputes involving less than $10,000, iNERDE will pay all arbitration filing fees and arbitrator fees

For Disputes involving $10,000 or more, fees will be determined by AAA rules

iNERDE will not seek attorneys' fees from you even if we prevail in arbitration, unless the arbitrator finds your claims or defenses frivolous

Discovery: Discovery in arbitration will be limited to what is reasonable and proportionate to the claims at issue, with particular sensitivity to the expeditious and cost-effective resolution of Disputes.

Arbitrator's Decision: The arbitrator will issue a written decision that includes the essential findings and conclusions on which the decision is based. The arbitrator's decision is binding and may be entered as a judgment in any court of competent jurisdiction.

Modifications for Users Under 18: If you are under 18, the arbitration will include additional procedural safeguards, including requiring parental participation in the arbitration process and limiting discovery to protect student privacy.

(d) Waiver of Jury Trial

EXCEPT AS SPECIFIED in Section 17.2(a), YOU AND iNERDE HEREBY WAIVE ANY CONSTITUTIONAL AND STATUTORY RIGHTS TO SUE IN COURT AND HAVE A TRIAL IN FRONT OF A JUDGE OR A JURY. You and iNERDE are instead electing that all Disputes shall be resolved by arbitration under this Arbitration Agreement. An arbitrator can award on an individual basis the same damages and relief as a court and must follow these Terms as a court would. However, there is no judge or jury in arbitration, and court review of an arbitration award is subject to very limited review.

(e) Waiver of Class or Other Non-Individualized Relief

YOU AND iNERDE AGREE THAT EACH OF US MAY BRING DISPUTES AGAINST THE OTHER ONLY ON AN INDIVIDUAL BASIS AND NOT ON A CLASS, REPRESENTATIVE, OR COLLECTIVE BASIS, AND THE PARTIES HEREBY WAIVE ALL RIGHTS TO HAVE ANY DISPUTE BE BROUGHT, HEARD, ADMINISTERED, RESOLVED, OR ARBITRATED ON A CLASS, COLLECTIVE, REPRESENTATIVE, OR MASS ACTION BASIS.

Only individual relief is available, and Disputes of more than one customer or user cannot be arbitrated or consolidated with those of any other customer or user. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Arbitration Agreement or the AAA Consumer Arbitration Rules, disputes regarding the interpretation, applicability, or enforceability of this class action waiver may be resolved only by a court and not by an arbitrator.

If this class action waiver is found to be unenforceable, then the entirety of this Arbitration Agreement shall be null and void. However, the waiver of class and representative actions is an essential part of this Arbitration Agreement, and if it is deemed unenforceable, you and iNERDE agree that this Section 17.2 is otherwise enforceable.

(f) 30-Day Right to Opt Out of Arbitration Agreement

You have the right to opt out of the provisions of this Arbitration Agreement by sending a timely written notice of your decision to opt out to:

Email: [[email protected]]
Mail: iNERDE INC., PO Box 783
Stoughton, MA 02072
United States
Subject: "Arbitration Opt-Out"

Notice must be sent within 30 days after you first become subject to this Arbitration Agreement. Your notice must include:

Your name and account email

A clear statement that you wish to opt out of the Arbitration Agreement

Your signature (physical or electronic)

If you opt out of the Arbitration Agreement, all other parts of these Terms will continue to apply. Opting out of this Arbitration Agreement has no effect on any previous, other, or future arbitration agreements that you may have with us.

For Parents: If you are opting out on behalf of a child under 13, you must clearly state your parental relationship and the child's information in the opt-out notice.

(g) Changes to Arbitration Agreement

Notwithstanding Section 15 (Changes to These Terms), if iNERDE changes this Section 17.2 (Arbitration Agreement) after the date you first accepted these Terms (or accepted any subsequent changes to these Terms), you may reject that change by sending us written notice (including by email to [[email protected]]) within 30 days of the date the change became effective. Rejecting a new change, however, does not revoke or alter your prior consent to any earlier agreements to arbitrate any Dispute between you and iNERDE (or your prior consent to any subsequent changes thereto), which will remain in effect and enforceable as to any Dispute between you and iNERDE.

(h) Severability

If any portion of this Arbitration Agreement is found to be unenforceable or unlawful for any reason:

The unenforceable or unlawful provision shall be severed from these Terms

Severance of the unenforceable or unlawful provision shall have no impact whatsoever on the remainder of the Arbitration Agreement or the parties' ability to compel arbitration of any remaining claims on an individual basis pursuant to the Arbitration Agreement

To the extent that any claims must therefore proceed on a class, collective, consolidated, or representative basis, such claims must be litigated in a civil court of competent jurisdiction and not in arbitration, and the parties agree that litigation of those claims shall be stayed pending the outcome of any individual claims in arbitration

17.3 Venue for Litigation

For any Disputes not subject to arbitration (as set forth in Section 17.2(a)), you agree that any legal action or proceeding shall be brought exclusively in the state or federal courts located in Massachusetts, and you consent to the personal jurisdiction of such courts.

17.4 Time Limitation on Claims

You must bring any claims within one (1) year of the event giving rise to the claim, or the claim is permanently barred. This one-year limitations period applies to all claims, including those brought in arbitration or court.

17.5 Export Control

You agree not to export, reexport, or transfer, directly or indirectly, any U.S. technical data acquired from iNERDE, or any products utilizing such data, in violation of the United States export laws or regulations.

18. GENERAL PROVISIONS

18.1 Entire Agreement

These Terms, together with our Privacy Policy and any additional terms applicable to specific features or programs, constitute the entire agreement between you and iNERDE regarding your use of the Sites and Platform. Our failure to exercise or enforce any right or provision of these Terms shall not operate as a waiver of such right or provision.

18.2 Assignment

You may not assign or transfer these Terms or your account without our prior written consent. We may assign these Terms without restriction. Any attempted assignment by you in violation of this Section shall be null and void.

18.3 Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remaining provisions will remain in full force and effect, and the invalid provision will be modified to the minimum extent necessary to make it valid and enforceable. If such modification is not possible, the invalid provision will be severed from these Terms.

18.4 Waiver

Our failure to enforce any right or provision of these Terms will not be deemed a waiver of such right or provision. Any waiver of any provision of these Terms will be effective only if in writing and signed by iNERDE.

18.5 Force Majeure

We are not liable for any failure or delay in performance due to circumstances beyond our reasonable control, including but not limited to acts of God, war, terrorism, riots, embargoes, acts of civil or military authorities, fire, floods, accidents, pandemics, epidemics, strikes, or shortages of transportation, facilities, fuel, energy, labor, or materials.

18.6 Electronic Communications

You consent to receive communications from iNERDE in electronic form, including via email or by posting notices on the Sites or Platform. You agree that all terms and conditions, agreements, notices, disclosures, and other communications that iNERDE provides to you electronically satisfy any legal requirement that such communications would satisfy if provided in hardcopy writing.

How to Withdraw Consent: You may withdraw your consent to receive electronic communications by contacting us at [[email protected]]. However, withdrawing consent may limit or prevent your use of the Services.

How to Update Contact Information: You are responsible for keeping your email address current. You can update your email address in your account settings.

18.7 Notices

Notices to you may be made via email, regular mail, or by posting to the Sites or Platform. Notices to iNERDE should be sent to:

iNERDE INC.
PO Box 783
Stoughton, MA 02072
United States

Email: [[email protected]]

Service of any notice shall be deemed given on the date of receipt (or refusal of receipt).

18.8 Relationship

Nothing in these Terms creates any agency, partnership, joint venture, employment, or franchisee relationship between you and iNERDE. You may not represent yourself as an agent, employee, or partner of iNERDE.

18.9 Third-Party Beneficiaries

These Terms do not create any third-party beneficiary rights except as expressly stated herein. No third party may enforce any provision of these Terms.

18.10 Language

These Terms are written in English. Any translations are provided for convenience only. In the event of any conflict between the English version and a translation, the English version shall prevail.

18.11 Section Headings

Section headings in these Terms are for convenience only and have no legal or contractual effect.

18.12 Independent Covenants

Each section of these Terms constitutes a separate and independent covenant. The unenforceability of any provision shall not affect the enforceability of any other provision.

18.13 Government Users

If you are a U.S. government entity or using the Services in an official capacity, our Services are "Commercial Items" as defined at 48 C.F.R. §2.101, and use is governed by these Terms.

19. CONTACT US

We're here to help! If you have questions about these Terms, please contact us:

iNERDE INC.
A 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization

Mailing Address:
PO Box 783
Stoughton, MA 02072
United States

Email:
General Inquiries: [[email protected]]
Website: www.inerde.org

Tax ID (EIN): 46-3177885
DUNS Number: 096248820

Thank You for Being Part of the iNERDE Learning Community! 🚀

By joining iNERDE, you're not just learning STEM—you're joining a global movement to empower African youth through education. Together, we're building the future, one curious mind at a time.

Keep that nerdy-attitude strong! 🧠✨

IMPORTANT LEGAL NOTICES

Notice Regarding Arbitration

This document contains an arbitration agreement that affects your legal rights. By accepting these Terms, you agree to resolve most disputes through binding arbitration instead of in court. You have 30 days to opt out of arbitration. See Section 17.2(f) for opt-out instructions.

Notice for Parents

If you are creating an account for a child under 13, you are agreeing to these Terms on your child's behalf and consenting to our collection and use of your child's information as described in our Privacy Policy. You can review, modify, or delete your child's information at any time.

Updates and Changes

We may update these Terms from time to time. Material changes will be communicated with at least 30 days' notice. Your continued use after changes indicates acceptance of the new Terms.

Last Updated: February 4, 2026
Version: 2.0
Effective Date: February 4, 2026

iNERDE INC. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization registered in Massachusetts, United States.