The internet opens doors to amazing worlds for students. Tools like homework help and online research databases are there to help them learn. Social networking sites are there to help them meet other students from around the globe and stay connected in new and innovative ways. But for all of the ways the Internet can enrich children's lives, there are an equal and growing number of dangers out there.

Sgt. Spain, our school resource officer, has been working all year to educate students and parents alike about the potential dangers of cyberspace. He has held a number of parent workshops as well as working with students at all grade levels. He recently conducted a safety seminar for  students at WES.

"It's not just high school kids we need to worry about," he said. "Our younger students are online as well and they need to be armed with some basic safety information before they go there."

Sgt. Spain gave students a good overview of internet do's and don'ts, as well as answering their questions, and letting them know that he is there to help them if they are every uncomfortable with anything they see or experience while surfing the 'net.

Further information:

Are you wondering why all the fuss about Internet Safety? According to ikeepsafe. org, the three risks associated with all connected technology are:

• Inappropriate Contact –Kids need to know how to recognize and protect themselves against contact with cyber-bullies, hackers, phishers, and predators. People aren't always who they say they are.

• Inappropriate Content- This includes both content that is viewed and content that is uploaded by kids. We need to help kids understand that the Internet is forever: everything they post online is tracked and stored and will follow them to future job interviews and college entrance interviews.

• Inappropriate Conduct – Because the web environment can feel anonymous, some youth become dis-inhibited. We need to each kids that the Internet is a public forum: anonymity is a myth. Help them be the good person online that they are when they’re off line.

Internet Safety sites you may want to check out!

• http://www.netsmartz.org

• http://www.ikeepsafe.org

• http://www.safekids.org

• http://www.webwisekids.org

This page is maintained by Communications Specialist, Jill Aurora according to the Web publishing guidelines of the Watervliet City School District. Copyright 2007. All rights reserved. Watervliet City Schools are not responsible for facts or opinions contained in linked web sites.
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