Jefferson County Schools believes that it is vitally important to teach students the skills and equip them with the knowledge necessary to use technology and digital resources safely, wisely, and efficiently as they learn. For this reason, several digital citizenship resources are provided to our schools as they plan how to best deliver this instruction.
What is Digital Citizenship?
The Jefferson County Schools 20/20 Vision includes a commitment to collaborative partnerships and personalized learning paths that engage students and educators in technology-rich environments. The skills, knowledge, and practice necessary to use technology and digital resources safely, efficiently, and wisely are essential to the success of students and educators. This skill set is known as Digital Citizenship.
Who is Responsible for Teaching Digital Citizenship?
In accordance with the Children's Internet Protection Act, Jefferson County Schools Board Policy states that all students will be given appropriate instruction in internet safety as a part of any instruction utilizing computer resources. For additional information and resources regarding this expectation, review the CIPA: Children's Internet Protection Act page of the District Resources Page of the ITPDC District-Wide Info Notebook.
All employees and students sign Acceptable and Responsible Use Agreements that outlines the expectations of proper technology and internet usage on any Jefferson County Schools' device or account. These forms are available in Registration Gateway Documents. In addition, Digital Citizenship units are provided through a variety of resources to further increase awareness and knowledge.
What Resources are Available for Teaching Digital Citizenship?
Jefferson County Schools recommends that teachers utilize the Digital Citizenship units designed and provided by Common Sense Media. These comprehensive units provide activities that emphasize the safe use of digital media in today's society. Student safety is of utmost concern in our district. These activities are organized in age-appropriate units covering grade bands K-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12.
Teachers are encouraged to use those portions of the Common Sense Media curriculum that best address the needs of their students and instructional design. The full set of free resources are available at no cost online at Common Sense Education and Digital Citizenship Resources.
Where Can Families Learn More and Find Resources?
Jefferson County Schools believes that a child’s first teachers are their parents. It is our goal to support and empower families in raising children who are safe, thoughtful, and contributing citizens in an increasingly digital and global world. Families are encouraged to use those portions of the Common Sense Media parent resources that best fit their needs. Resources are available, at no cost, online at Common Sense Media for Parents.
Additional resources and information are often made available on Jefferson County Schools website and social media outlets. Check out the latest news and information at jc-schools.net/news.