The Internet has drastically changed the way that children interact with the world. They have access to in-depth knowledge, tools to express their creativity, and people from all over the world. Yet along with offering a fascinating, new way to connect with the world, the Internet also offers new risks including -
- Cyberbullying
- Exposure to inappropriate material
- Online predators
- Revealing too much personal information
On October 10, 2008 the 'Broadband Data Improvement Act' / 'Protecting Children in the 21st Century Act' was signed into law. For schools and districts the law means that elementary and secondary schools having computers with Internet access will not receive federal funding through the E-Rate Program for Internet service, Internet access or internal connections without certifying that their Internet safety policy includes Internet safety education. Specifically, the Internet safety education must include lessons on cyber bullying awareness and response as well as teaching appropriate online behaviors for students on social networking sites and in chat rooms.
In addition to providing a safe and monitored digital environment for students to learn and thrive, Menifee Union School District has responded to this challenge by developing a straightforward, effective and age-appropriate Internet Safety Curriculum that all students receive.
Our Internet Safety Curriculum and Materials can be found here.
Please contact your school's principal or the Menifee Union School District Technology Office if you have any questions about Internet Safety and our response to the challenges of teaching our children in the digital age.
