WELLINGTON COUNTY – Crime Stoppers Guelph Wellington is partnering with local school boards to promote cyber safety to kids.
The organization has created a “CS Presentation,” with the CS standing for cyber safety, in response to discussions with the Upper Grand and Wellington Catholic district school boards regarding the increase in online threats directed at youth.
The presentation is targeted at youth from Grade 5 and up, and includes age-appropriate messaging for elementary and high school students to help them understand how online interaction can lead to dangers, such as “sextortion” and human trafficking, a news release stated.
“The CS Presentation is another example of how Crime Stoppers Guelph Wellington takes community safety seriously,” CSGW program coordinator Sarah Bowers-Peter said in the release.
“Each time we are in a classroom either a student or teacher will share a scary online experience,” she stated. “We decided it was tie to take action and give students the tools and understanding needed to protect themselves from online threats.”
Schools in the public and Catholic school boards will receive information packages on what the presentation contains as well as information for parents and guardians regarding the content.
“Cyber safety is an important topic impacting Upper Grand District School Board students and families,” UGDSB mental health lead Jenny Marino said in the release.
“We are pleased to have had the opportunity to work closely with Crime Stoppers Guelph Wellington and Sarah to ensure this learning opportunity is available to our schools through the year.”
Catholic board mental health lead Sony Brar agreed.
“By offering age-appropriate and impactful education on online safety, we are empowering our student with the knowledge they need to protect themselves from online risk,” Brar stated in the release.
Those wanting to book the presentation for their school are asked to contact Bowers-Peter via the CSGW website at www.csgw.tips.
