ST. LOUIS – Safer Internet Day on Tuesday emphasizes the crucial importance of safeguarding children online as they navigate an increasingly digital world. The internet has become a vital aspect of everyday life for students, but it also harbors genuine risks that can have dire consequences.
Tina Meier, founder of the Megan Meier Foundation, knows these risks all too well. Her daughter, Megan, tragically took her own life at the age of 13 in 2006 as a result of cyberbullying. Since then, Meier has dedicated her efforts to raising awareness about the harsh realities of online abuse and the importance of mental health support. She advocates for early and open conversations among parents and educators about internet safety.
“How do we help kids understand the difference between the online world and reality? It’s vital to encourage both adults and children to use the internet responsibly,” Meier said.
In the St. Louis region, the organization CyberUp is making strides toward online safety. Having reached over 2,500 K-12 students, CyberUp focuses on cybersecurity education, helping to demystify a topic that many find daunting. Tony Bryan from CyberUp expressed concern about the threats that exist online. “There are a lot of people out there that want your information, and they are willing to go at lengths,” he noted.
Scott Schaffer, Chief Information Security Officer at Blade Technologies, addressed the evolving risks brought on by artificial intelligence, stating that while AI presents exciting possibilities, it also introduces new challenges that need to be recognized and discussed.
The St. Charles School District is taking proactive measures to safeguard students online. They utilize GoGuardian, a tool that filters internet content and alerts educators about potential safety concerns. This system not only helps prevent access to inappropriate material but also allows educators to monitor student activity during lessons, fostering a responsible approach to technology use.
The district also employs GoGuardian Beacon, which aids in identifying students who may be searching for information related to self-harm, ensuring that support can be provided when needed.
As the conversation around internet safety continues, there’s hope that ongoing education and awareness can lead to a more secure online environment for children. Each effort contributes to a collective goal of reducing the risks of online interactions and promoting healthy, respectful behavior in the digital age.