Internet Safety for Students

The Internet is a valuable educational tool for children and adults alike. As you explore, you will open yourself to a world of wondrous possibilities and will be exposed to a wealth of information. The internet continues to grow – doubling in size nearly every three months – as more individuals, schools and businesses make their presence known in cyberspace.

One reason the Internet continues to expand is because it serves as the largest forum for public discussion and posting of information. While you will find many useful sites and helpful people throughout the world to help you in your journeys, all of us need to understand some basic rules when visiting sites or communicating with people on the internet:

Use only your first name. In e-mails, chat rooms and at web sites, please do not share personal information, such as your last name, address, phone number. Only share your e-mail address with those people you want to respond to you.
Do not share your account password with other students or friends.
When writing or speaking with people, please be respectful at all times - the person on the other side of the computer has feelings just like us.
If you become uncomfortable with anything you see or read online, simply leave the site or delete the file. Please tell your teacher or computer aide if you need assistance.
Do not download pictures, text or files unless you have permission from your teacher – images may contain computer viruses and could be harmful to your computer.
You can’t believe everything your read, especially in cyberspace. If you are using the internet for research, be sure to confirm your facts to insure the accuracy.

Most of all, have fun! Information on nearly every subject can be found online. Good luck on your journey and remember your teachers and aides will be there to help you make the most of the experience.