Digital Citizenship & Wellness

As part of the Colorado Internet Safety and Digital Responsibility, Jeffco is required to provide a safe and secure internet environment for students. To maintain that type of environment, Jeffco selected the Palo Alto firewall to monitor, filter and block restricted websites on all district computers, while connected to the district network and on devices that go home with students.

Jeffco also uses Securly, which provides web filtering support at home (or on other public Wi-Fi networks) for district Chromebook and iPad devices. Securly is activated once a student logs into their device using their district Google log-ins. In March 2020, Jeffco rolled out the SecurlyHome app with which families can monitor activity on these devices.

Finally, YouTube and Google Safe Search are enabled by default on district TechForEd devices. The Safe Search feature cannot be disabled by the students.

No filtering system is perfect. They utilize rules or patterns to look for inappropriate content in words or images online. Sometimes medical pictures, references and dynamic content make their way through filters. Because of this, Jeffco communicates expectations around classroom management to all staff. Teachers also incorporate digital citizenship lessons into students' curriculum. Active monitoring while communicating expectations and boundaries clearly with children is the best way to keep them safe online.

Remember the Internet is a public resource. It can be an easy way for people to misrepresent themselves or their motives. Don't believe everything that you read online. Verify the authenticity of information before taking any action.

• Keep security software current.
• Automate software updates.
• Always use a firewall.
• Disconnect from the Internet when idle.
• Use a pop-up blocker.
• Back up your data regularly.
• Protect all devices that connect to the internet. This includes computers, smart phones, and gaming systems.
• Scan USB and other external devices for viruses and malware.
• Wipe your hard drive before you dispose of an old computer.

• Encrypt your Wi-Fi connection.
• When in doubt, throw it out. Links in emails, tweets, posts and advertisements are often used as means to compromise your device. Best to delete or mark as junk if something looks suspicious.
• Check to be sure sites are security-enabled when banking and shopping. Look for web addresses with 'https://' or 'shttp://'. 'http://' is not secure.

• Secure your accounts. Many providers offer additional verification beyond passwords, use them.
• Make passwords long and strong (see next section).
• Use separate passwords for every account.
• Own your online presence. Set privacy and security settings on websites to your comfort level of information sharing.

Do...

• Create a password using a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters with numbers and symbols.
• Use one password for your computer login and different passwords for websites.
• Give your password and credit card number only while on a secure connection on a website.
• Change your password periodically.
• Use different passwords for different websites.

• Use your address, birth date, phone number, common words, or pet's name.
• Share your passwords.
• Write down any passwords near your computer or where someone can easily access them.
• Carry your passwords in your purse or wallet.
• Give your password or credit card number via email.

• Be mindful of bullying, predators, and privacy issues.
• Only accept 'friends' you already know.
• Avoid giving out private information.

Parental controls are available on most Internet-enabled devices. Read more about the different kinds of filters and tools available or find links to additional information about protecting kids online.

• Use a strong passcode to lock your phone.
• Review privacy policies and understand what data applications can access before you download.
• Only give your number to people you know and trust.
• Disable geotagging.