Dear SBISD Community and Families,
As we celebrate Cybersecurity Awareness Month, I want to emphasize the importance of online security for our students and families. Navigating the digital world safely is essential, as our online actions can significantly impact ourselves, our community, and our schools. Choices made in the digital world can have serious implications in the real world.
To prepare for this month’s focus, I teamed up with our Associate Superintendent of Technology, Christina Masick, to gather the latest and most effective strategies for keeping students safe online. Both parents and students play a crucial role in safeguarding personal information and making informed online choices. Let’s come together to foster a culture of safe decision-making in our digital lives.
Best Practices for Online Security
Neglecting digital security can lead to scams and identity theft. While our district uses robust antivirus software, fostering Digital Citizenship is key. This month, students will learn essential skills, such as creating strong passwords and safeguarding personal information. To enhance online safety, please adopt these best practices:
- Create Strong Passwords: Teach children to use complex passwords and not to share their passwords with other students.
- Be Cautious with Downloads and Extensions: Encourage children to only use district-approved digital resources.
- Think Before Sharing: Remind students never to share personal information online; the district will never ask for usernames or passwords via email.
- Identify Spam: Help children recognize spam emails and instruct them on how to report these messages.
- Control Data Collection: Empower students to manage their online privacy by adjusting settings and being cautious with advertisements.
Addressing Cyberbullying and Online Threats
While most social media platforms are blocked on the district’s network and on district devices many students use social media on their personal devices such as phones.
Encourage your child to follow our “See Something, Say Something” protocol. If they encounter cyberbullying or anything concerning, they should report it immediately. Support is available through the Anonymous Reporting link on each campus website or by contacting the SBISD Police Department at 713-984-9805.
We have also seen an increase in social media threats, which endanger lives and waste valuable resources. It’s crucial to discuss the serious consequences of making threats with your child, as they can lead to suspension, expulsion, and felony charges under Texas law.
More information can be found in the Student Code of Conduct.
For additional resources, families can visit the Houston Crime Stoppers website, where you’ll find valuable resources and information about online safety.
Thank you for your continued commitment to the safety of our schools and community.
Sincerely,
Larry Baimbridge
SBISD Chief of Police