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Educational Design & Technology

Leaders

Internet Safety and Cyberbullying

School and district leaders have a variety of responsibilities regarding Internet Safety and Cyberbullying. These responsibilities are outlined in State and Federal Law. Leaders should ensure the following:

  • Acceptable Use Policies (AUP): AUPs, the guidelines for appropriate technology use, are developed, implemented, and revised as needed in the school district. These written agreements, signed by students, parents, teachers, administrators, and other school or district personnel, and outline the terms and conditions for using any kind of technology during school hours on school property.
  • Code of Conduct: Schools and/or districts must adopt and enforces a Code of Conduct, as required by Section 100.2 (l) (2) of the Commissioner's Regulations. The Code of Conduct should include prohibiting all forms of bullying or harassment, including cyberbullying, as required by the Dignity Act.
  • Cyberbullying: The school district develops and enforces policies, procedures, and guidelines that prevent cyberbullying, harassment, or bullying which occurs through any form of electronic communication, as required by the Dignity Act.
  • Data Privacy for students is safeguarded and unauthorized release of personally identifiable student, teacher, or administrator data (PII) is prevented, as required by Education Law Section 2-D .
  • Internet Safety Instruction is provided by the school district for all students. It includes safe, responsible, and appropriate online behavior, as required by Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA). Compliance with CIPA is required to receive E-Rate funds.
  • Internet Safety Policy: The school district has an Internet Safety Policy, as required by CIPA, that includes technology protection measures that block or filter internet access to pictures that are inappropriate or harmful to minors. There must be at least one public hearing or meeting to address the proposed Internet Safety Policy. The Internet Safety Policy must also include monitoring the online activities of minors. 

The Laws and Regulations page contains additional information, including links to the laws.