Our students are plugged into the digital world in so many ways and it is important that they stay safe while online.  As parents, keep the following tips in mind to help your child stay safe online.

• Know your child’s online activities and friends.  Regularly monitor the information your child is sharing with others through social media, online gaming sites, etc.  Make sure you are on their “friend” list, know their passwords, and check their online profiles. 
• Use privacy settings.  These settings limit who can view your child’s profile.  Check the account settings on their social media and gaming sites for this.
• Post with caution.  Be kind in what you post.  Once it is posted, you can’t get it back.  Ask your teen if it is something they would want a grandparent, teacher, college recruiter, or future employer to see.  Remember the Golden Rule.
• YAPPY.  Don’t share personal information such as:  Your full name, Address, Phone number, Passwords, and Your plans.
• Watch in-app purchases.  Advise your child to be careful when upgrading a game or app as these sometimes come with additional, and sometimes “hidden”, costs.
• Be aware of phishing.  Students should be aware of email scans, inappropriate content, and suspicious links. 
• Teach by example.  Model for your teen how to use social media appropriately.  Also, don’t text or e-mail while driving.  
• Don’t meet online friends offline.  Remind your teen to only communicate with people online they actually know.  People they meet online may not be who they say they are. 
• Know when to shut off.  Social media, online gaming, and technology can become all-consuming.  Life is about balance.  It isn’t good for our health and wellbeing to be “plugged in” all the time.  Take time to interact face-to-face and have fun with other activities.

Technology is part of our society and can be a helpful tool at school, home, and work.  Let’s keep our students safe online by following these simple tips.

Allison Schmidt, Superintendent