Message Regarding Social Media Safety

Dear NCS Parents and Guardians:

We recently learned that several students in surrounding school districts had been victimized by an online predator. This person(s) created numerous social media accounts, friended students, and proceeded to obtain very personal and private images and information about the individuals. The predator is now using this information to “blackmail” the students to provide additional pictures and information with the threat of sharing what has already been provided on social media sites and other public entities. After speaking with the school superintendents of these local districts, it is my understanding that law enforcement has been involved and is investigating all leads.

Because we want our students to be safe and to thrive in a world filled with technology, we have provided learning experiences focused on digital citizenship in both our Elementary School as well as in our High School in recent years. However, because mistakes made with social media can have devastating and long-lasting consequences, we are asking that you take a moment to speak with your son or daughter about their online activities.

If your child has an Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, or other social media accounts, this message is of particular importance. Common Sense Media offers numerous resources to support parents in having these conversations with their children, and I would encourage you to explore some of the links listed below:

https://www.commonsensemedia.org/privacy-and-internet-safety

https://www.commonsensemedia.org/social-media

https://www.commonsensemedia.org/social-media/when-should-i-start-talking-to-my-kid-about-using-social-sites-and-apps-responsibly

https://www.netsmartz.org/NetSmartzKids

https://www.connectsafely.org/safety-tips-advice/

Please know that safety is always our first priority here at NCS, and that we stand willing to do whatever we can in order to ensure our students are cared for. If you have any questions about how to have these conversations with your child regarding social media, please do not hesitate to reach out to a school counselor or administrator.

Sincerely,

Matt Frahm, Superintendent