The Internet provides students with access to a wealth of information and educational resources along with the opportunity for collaboration with other students around the world. Unfortunately, it also offers inappropriate content and the opportunities for interaction with persons with intent to cause harm. We believe that the benefits outweigh the disadvantages; however, it is critical that we work together to provide a safe environment and teach children ways to protect themselves while on the Internet. A comprehensive Internet Safety Program has been developed to provide information and training to students, staff, and parents.

The program includes:

1. Training for staff

  • Internet safety sessions have been offered during staff development days.
  • Online Internet safety module is available.
  • Internet Safety Information for Teachers website offers links to resources for teachers.
  • Information on internet safety is included in technology classes offered to HCPS teachers.

2. Presentations for parents

  • Internet safety presentations have been offered at PTA meetings for elementary and middle schools.
  • Internet Safety Information for Parents website offer links to information and resources for parents.
  • WebWise™ Tips for Students and Tips for Parents have been translated into Spanish, Russian, and Kurdish and distributed at PTA meetings.

3. Instruction for students

  • Internet Safety Information for Students website offers link to fun resources to help students learn about internet safety.
  • Be Safe on the Internet posters have been posted in each open computer lab to remind students of key tips for remaining safe on the Internet.
  • Tips for Safe Research bookmarks have been distributed to students with links to safe research sites.
  • Students at the middle school participate in a unit on Internet safety which includes the game "Missing."
  • Instructional Technology Resource Teachers (ITRTs) have partnered with teachers to provide lessons at a variety of grade levels./li>
  • School Resource Officers use components of the Class Action program that is offered through the office of the Virginia Attorney General for middle and high school students.

4. Filter for Internet access

  • DeepNines Web Filter is used to filter access to Internet content that is obscene, depicts pornography, is harmful to minors, or is deemed inappropriate for minors.
  • Internet use is monitored by teachers at all grade levels.
  • A review process is in place to consider exemptions or changes to the filter.  ITRTs regularly review new and emerging technologies to see that they can be safely deployed and to make necessary changes in filtering and access.

5. Guidelines for appropriate use of the Internet and networked resources by students and staff

  • HPCS Policy 752 - Student Use of the Internet (includes the Acceptable Use Agreement)
  • HPCS Policy 667 - Staff Access to Networked Resources
  • Guidelines for Websites
  • Guidelines for Electronic Communication

6. Security of data on HCPS network

  • No unfiltered access to the Internet is allowed.
  • A firewall is in place to prevent inappropriate access to HCPS data.
  • Anti-spam and anti-virus software is in place.