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Computers, cell phones, the Internet and other digital means of communication are great tools for people of all ages. However, improper use of these devices can be hurtful, intimidating or threatening. The Olathe Public Schools launched its CO3 committee to address cyber safety, cyber bullying and cyber integrity in Olathe.
Director for Instructional Technology and Library Media T.J. Ulmer leads the district's CO3 initiative.The team saw a need to highlight the district's existing efforts to educate students about proper use of digital communications. CO3 also teaches parents how to work with their children to use the Internet correctly and safely.
If you have concerns about potential cyber safety, please contact your child's school or call the 24-hour anonymous School Resource Officer hotline at (913) 780-7777.
- More than 50 percent of parents feel their ability to monitor and shelter their children from inappropriate materials is limited. ~ i-Safe Survey
- 24 percent of children surveyed do not feel there is anything wrong with chatting with strangers online. ~ i-Safe Survey
- 28 percent of children surveyed have seen something on the Internet they consider dangerous. ~ i-Safe Survey
- More than 33 percent of youth have been victimized through cyber bullying. ~ Journal of School Violence
- More than 50 percent of high school students admit plagiarizing from the Internet. ~ Rutgers University
Research has shown that children whose parents have talked with them about Internet safety are more responsible for their use of the Internet. Parents don't have to be computer experts to keep their children safe online.
Links and Documents for All Age Groups
- Read the Cyber Safety Parent Guide (PDF)
- See the National Cybersecurity Alliance's online article about Raising Digital Citizens
- See Common Sense Media's Parent Guide to Social Media
- Visit Overnight Geek University's website about internet safety
- See Common Sense Media's online app reviews
- Read the Net Lingo (PDF)
- Read the Social Web Tips for Parents (PDF)
- Read the Four Apps Parents Should Monitor (PDF)
- Read Keeping Kids Safe in Cyber Space on the SafeHome.org website
- Read the National Crime Prevention Council's Spotting the Signs of Cyberbullying (PDF)
Elementary Links, Documents
- Visit the NetSmartz website
- Check out the family resources on the I Keep Safe website
- Read Verizon's tips for parenting in a digital world
Middle School and High School Links, Documents
