As members of a school community we often think about digital citizenship as how students behave while online or on their Chromebooks. However, digital citizenship extends past the boundary of Chromebooks, and extends into student behaviors while playing video games, using the self-checkout at the library, texting with friends, and so much more. TeachThought defines digital citizenship as, “The quality of habits, actions, and consumption patterns that impact the ecology of digital content and communities.” (see article below) If we think of this definition, how are we digital citizens as adults? As family members? In this Parent University, you can explore some different resources for digital citizenship, and learn more about how we encourage positive digital interactions for our students-- at school, and in their everyday lives.

In District 15, our mission is to provide students with critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and communication skills to help prepare them for college and career readiness. We believe that all students should learn to have positive interactions while interacting with technology. Therefore, all students complete digital citizenship lessons throughout the year. District 15’s Digital Citizenship curriculum consists of lessons from Common Sense Media. Each month a lesson is taught that has a main area of focus. The areas of focus are:

• Media Balance & Well Being

• Privacy & Security

• Digital Footprint & Identity

• Relationships & Communication

• Cyberbullying, Digital Drama & Hate speech

These lessons prepare students to take ownership of their digital lives, teach them how to think critically, be safe, and interact with others responsibly. Ask your student's teacher about when they are exploring the digital citizenship curriculum.

As a parent, knowing how to talk to your students about technology can be a challenge. Keeping up with all of the apps and websites kids use can be a challenge. A great resource for all things tech is Common Sense Media. This website has resources for parents on many topics, and is a one stop shop for all things kids and tech. Check it out!

If you are having issues with a student Chromebook (won't charge, won't start up, login issues) please contact your student's teacher or school office. They will be able to properly route you to the best assistance. Please remember that restarting your student's Chromebook is also a great way to do some basic troubleshooting at home. Click here for a quick video on how to restart your Chromebook!