Dear Parents,
As you are well aware, the use of technology and social media has grown considerably over the past years. Although these resources offer tremendous personal, professional and educational benefits, they also pose an emerging concern for our youth. Because inappropriate use of the Internet has the potential to create harmful repercussions, we ask for your support in assisting us with this challenge.
It has been brought to my attention that there is a group of online hackers targeting social media accounts of teenagers around the country, on Long Island, and specifically, within our own school district. Hackers are stealing photos – some inappropriate – and posting them to an online sharing website. While the school district has no connection to this website, we are working with law enforcement authorities who are aware of this matter.
In an effort to keep our students safe, we will continue to teach and review Internet safety protocols within our schools, as well as emphasize the importance of being vigilant with regard to what students share online.
As partners in education, I encourage you to take time to speak with your child about this important matter. It is imperative that they understand that any images shared – whether through email or a social networking service – are considered public once uploaded. They can be forwarded by anyone, to anyone, at any time – thus broadening the viewing audience well beyond what the photographer may have intended.
According to the media reports, if believe your child may have a photograph on this website, you may have it removed by reaching out to the local police or by contacting the site master.
Thank you for your support and cooperation in keeping our children safe. If you have any questions or would like more information about this matter, please feel free to contact your child’s principal.
Sincerely,
Dr. Bill Heidenreich
Superintendent of Schools
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