Ru cybersmart

Susan Sutton National Cyberbully Consultant and Speaker

Steps to Making a School Cyber Safe

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Anticipate and Prepare  

 

1. Realize that Cyberbullying happens at every school.

Þ No matter the circumstances or demographics, every school will have a cyberbullying issue. You might not know about every incident or the level of severity but there will be incidents

 

2. Have Clear Rules and Expectations

Þ Bring in a Specialist

· A presenter in Cyberbullying can educate the staff, students and parents to get everyone aware of the issues concerning internet safety and harassment.

· Specialist can also help prepare and implement preparations.

Þ Include Cyberbullying in the School Handbook

· Cyberbullying should be listed in the school handbook in accordance with school discipline and expectations along with bullying and respect.

· Handbook must be signed by both parents and student.

Þ Include Cyberbullying in the School Technology Agreement

· Agreement must be signed by both parents and student.

Þ Implement a School Cyber Team to Handle Technology Issues

¨ Team should include an Administrator, School Counselor, Computer Teacher, and student (from STOP team) at a minimum.

¨ Have a school team action plan to follow when an issue arises.

¨ Resolve issues with conflict resolution, problem solving and education instead of just discipline.

Educate

 

1. Format a STOP (Students Teaching Online Protection) Team or Club.

Þ Students are the most aware of what goes on concerning the internet.

Þ Younger students listen to older students and can be used both to educate the students themselves and to teach younger students.

2. Include Cyber Education in your media or computer curriculum.