As technology continues to shape our lives, it’s more important than ever to teach our students how to use digital tools responsibly and thoughtfully. In District 54, we are committed to helping students develop strong digital citizenship skills that will not only keep them safe but also help them become respectful, informed and balanced members of the online world.
This week is Digital Citizenship Week, and each day, we’ll be sharing quick reminders focused on different aspects of digital citizenship. These simple actions can have a powerful and immediate impact on students’ decisions online. We encourage families to take a moment each day to discuss these tips and reinforce positive digital behavior at home.
Tuesday, October 15 – Be Inclusive
The first reminder of Digital Citizenship Week is to be inclusive. Inclusivity online means being open to hearing and respecting different viewpoints, especially from those with different experiences. Whether commenting on social media or participating in a group chat, students should engage with others using respect and empathy.
Taking a few moments to encourage inclusivity can make a huge difference in shaping how students approach interactions online. It helps build digital environments where everyone feels safe and respected.
Wednesday, October 16 – Be Informed
Wednesday’s reminder is to be informed. With so much information online, it’s crucial that students develop the ability to evaluate the accuracy, perspective, and trustworthiness of what they come across. Encourage your student to ask questions like: Where is this information coming from? Is it biased? Is it reliable?
When students take time to assess the content they consume, it helps them make smarter, safer choices online. Guiding them through this process helps lay the foundation for critical thinking in their digital lives.
Thursday, October 17 – Be Balanced
Maintaining balance between online and offline activities is essential for students. Thursday’s reminder is to be balanced by making sure students are not spending too much time in front of screens, and are also engaging in other important activities like reading, exercising, and spending time with family and friends.
Helping students reflect on how they divide their time can lead to healthier habits both now and in the future. Taking the time to establish a good balance is key to developing a healthy relationship with technology.
Friday, October 18 – Be Alert
The final reminder for Digital Citizenship Week is to be alert. Students need to understand that their online actions can have real-world consequences. Being alert means being aware of how their words and behavior online affect others, as well as recognizing potential risks to their safety. Remind your student to think carefully before posting, sharing, or engaging with content online.
Even small actions, like pausing before posting, can make a big difference in creating a safer, kinder digital environment for everyone.
How You Can Help
Each of these reminders offers an easy but powerful way to influence your student’s online behavior. A quick daily conversation about these tips can help guide students toward being respectful, informed, balanced, and alert digital citizens. Together, we can help our students make smart decisions that will positively impact both their digital and real-world communities.
