Williston High School is taking an active role in guiding students towards safe and informed use of technology. In preparing for life beyond WHS, students need the skills to use digital technology. In the classroom, kids are asked to search the internet, evaluate what they find, and properly credit that information when it is used.

Mrs.Cowan who teaches English and Creative Writing is overseeing digital literacy this year at WHS. I had a chance to ask her a few questions.

What message are you trying to get out to the students about digital literacy?

Our school vision is to prepare students to be successful at the next level of education, work, and life.  One part of the mission is to educate with the highest level of technology so that students are prepared to be productive members of the 21st century.  Digital citizenship is a huge part of that.  We want students to understand how to make safe, smart, and ethical decisions online.

What do you think are the top concerns parents and students should be aware of?

Parents should participate in sending one unified message to students about protecting their personal information and their digital footprint.  You can’t take back or erase what you post.  A growing number of employers pay close attention to employee’s and potential employee’s digital footprint.  You need to be mindful about how others can interpret your image.

What are the tops three takeaways you hope kids will get?

• Students need to stop and think before they connect.
• Students need to be aware of scams and potential threats.
• Students need to understand and be able to navigate the online world with proper online etiquette.

In order to be ready for graduation in the 21st century workforce, WHS students need to know how to responsibly and respectfully handle all the avenues of technology in both academic life and social life.