Seneca Valley to Offer Cyber Safety Classes for Parents

plans to conduct seven presentations for parents in February to discuss cyber-bullying, Internet safety, social networking, online communication and predator avoidance.

The seminars also will encourage parents to take a greater role in their students’ online life. The Verizon Foundation is donating $8,000 to the district for the presentations.  

 “The presentations will enable parents to become advocates for their children and for safety,” said Jeffrey Fuller, assistant superintendent at Seneca Valley. “As parents and educators, more and more often we hear stories of children falling prey to predators via the Internet. 

"Additionally, with more and younger children having access to a variety of electronic communication mediums, we feel it is vital that the school district takes a lead role in providing parents and students with the skills and information that is needed to face these situations."

The presentations will be available to parents, community members and district staff at each of Seneca Valley’s seven schools.

The programs will feature simulation of Internet activity to help participants become more aware of the far-reaching effects that cyber-bullying and online predators can have on students, a statement from Seneca Valley said.

The long-term negative implications of student postings through electronic means—and how it is becoming an increasing problem—also will be discussed.

“By presenting this information directly to parents, we hope to provide a wider net of protection for our students,” Fuller said.

William B. Carnahan, vice president of external affairs for Verizon Pennsylvania, said the company is pleased to be part of the program.

"We're investing in programs, such as our partnership with the SVSchool district, to reach every type of learner across the lifespan and to touch people's lives by focusing on education, health and family safety in the 21st century,” he said. “We understand that education does not begin or end in the classroom."

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