I P Schools address Internet safety

Both Francis X. Hegarty Elementary School and Lincoln Orens Middle School presented information on Internet safety during presentations held on Oct. 6-7. Hegarty Social Worker Felicita Carranza discussed Internet safety and cyber bullying with grades 3 and 4, while at the middle school, Education Technology Specialist Christine Chu and Social Worker Allison Janofsky reviewed proper ways to use technological resources.

With different presentations for different grades, the focus was on Internet safety and anti-bullying.

Third-and fourth-graders were told they should speak to trusted adults when they have questions or concerns about internet use, ask permission when sharing information over the internet, use good judgment while online and not meet face-to-face with anyone from the internet. The students and parents together signed Internet safety contracts.

Fifth-graders also learned the fundamentals of Internet safety: keeping their personal information and passwords private. The sixth-grade session concentrated on cyber bullying, its consequences and how to help combat this behavior. Seventh-grade students were taught about social networking and its pros and cons, specifically the ways that it can be effectively used and the dangers that may result from overuse. Lincoln Orens Principal Vincent Randazzo discussed the Code of Conduct following each presentation.

All of the assemblies showed movie clips that portrayed real-life scenarios and outcomes. Students learned how they can take steps to stand up to cyber bullying in positive ways and were shown how getting help can change things for the better. The presenters reminded students that help is always available and that they can turn to staff members, parents and police for support if needed.

“We empower students with information and strategies on how to effectively and appropriately handle situations regarding cyber bullying, whether it is directed at them or to others,” Ms. Chu said.

The sessions tied in with the district wide observation of October as National Bullying Prevention Month and made references to the Island Park Public Schools’ anti-bullying policy as well as the Dignity for All Students Act. Both schools were also engaged in STOMP Out Bullying activities during the week of Oct. 3 to further encourage kindness, unity, communication and coping with negative emotions at all ages. Students throughout the buildings participated in class discussions about these topics and signed pledges to help take a stand to end bullying.