This post is from from my other blog here

In our very scientific study conducted today (OK, it may have been a statistically insignificant representation, but it was 8 very eager and attentive 3rd-grade Brownies learning about computers and internet safety), we compiled some very interesting, and not unsurprising facts and statistics. THESE ARE NOT GOOD THINGS. Additionally, while this little survey may not exactly support our blog post title, from many years of professional engagement in this discipline, this statistic is very likely actually understated.

- All the Brownies (beginner Girl Scouts, basically) were very eager and interested in exploring the topic of Internet Safety, which was very new and thought-provoking to them
- 5 out of 8 "definitely knew more about computers and the Internet than their Moms"
- 5 out of 8 could "use the Internet whenever they wanted, with no restrictions"
- 3 out of 8 had ever been informed at all about online dangers and Internet Safety

This last fact is a little disconcerting, given the fact that in 2006 the Virginia General Assembly passed legislation requiring that Internet safety curricula be implemented in every public school across the Commonwealth. In fact, an Internet Safety book called "Faux Paw's Adventures in the Internet", is to be sent to every public and private elementary school in the State, focused on 3rd-graders.

What's Loudoun School's policy? It's actually a little hard to discover, as one might on Loudoun Schools main site, when clicking on the link "Some Simple Internet Safety Rules" (all you get is "the Content you wish to view is expired"). I believe I pointed this out a while ago to school officials - obviously no action, yet.

It's also very hard to discover just using Google - search for "Loudoun Schools Internet Safety", and you get many links of ours, the "bad" link mentioned above, and really nothing else. THIS CAN BE CORRECTED REALLY QUICKLY - Edgar et. al., just contact us, and we'll tell you how...

100% of all children should be informed at school and at home about Internet Safety, period.

Parents, Teachers and School Administrators: get educated FAST - check out local, current information at Dadministrator Internet Safety and Whizkids Internet Safety Links.