Digital Citizenship Initiative Information
Character Academics Community
Dear Students, Staff, and Families,
Ord Public Schools is starting a new Digital Citizenship Initiative to help students use the internet safely and responsibly. This board approved initiative focuses on protecting students’ digital footprints and helping them make good choices online. It is built around six core rules that give students, families, and staff a shared way to talk about online behavior. These rules will be taught in classrooms, reinforced through school expectations, and shared in messages sent home. Our goal is to help students think before they post, protect their personal information, treat others with respect, and understand that what they do online can last a long time.
In today’s digital world, how we act online matters just as much as how we act in person. Online communication does not include tone of voice or body language, which can make messages easy to misunderstand. Because of this, students need to be careful, respectful, and thoughtful when communicating online.
Six core universal rules guide digital citizenship. We find balance in our digital lives; we care about everyone’s privacy; we know the power of words and actions; we define who we are; we are kind and courageous; and we are critical thinkers and creators. These rules give students simple reminders they can use in real situations, such as posting on social media, commenting online, joining group chats, or dealing with conflict. We encourage parents and guardians to talk with their students about these rules at home. Even a short conversation can help students make positive choices and protect their digital footprint.
Information about digital citizenship will be shown on school digital signage and posted on district social media pages. Focus on digital citizenship will be discussed in classrooms so students can hear the message, talk about it, and practice it. The goal is not to experience a set curriculum, but rather promote opportunities for conversations. This shared approach helps keep the conversation going at both school and home. We will also share helpful tips and resources to support families as we find information that may be helpful to our families.
Thank you for joining us as we promote Character Academics Community through strong digital citizenship routines and practices.
Your Partner In Education,
Dr. Heather Nebesniak