Congressman Pete King

CONGRESSMAN KING WORKS WITH SEAFORD SCHOOL DISTRICT AGAINST CYBERBULLYING

October 29, 2009

Congressman Pete King presents Seaford Manor elementary school Principal John Striffolino and 5th grade students with a certificate for their work in educating students in the use of the internet to pursue cyberbullying.

The internet provides students with countless educational and social opportunities. It is a source of knowledge which was not available to previous generations of students. Unfortunately, however, this great educational tool also presents challenges and dangers such as cyberbulling which must be confronted and overcome.

Cyberbullying can be particularly damaging to young people. Spreading vicious rumors over the internet, ridiculing fellow students with text messages are just part of what is being done to too many young people today. These cruel actions would cause pain and anguish to people of any age. They are particularly devastating when carried out against young people.

This week I was at the Seaford Manor School to take part with the 5th grade class to take part in an “Internet Smarts” program which provides students with tools designed to teach safe and appropriate internet usage and prevent cyberbullying. This program, which is coordinated between Cablevision and the Seaford school district, provides a forum for parents and teachers to work with children to make the safest and most effective use of cyberspace. At the conclusion of the presentation, I was proud to present Seaford Principal John Striffolino with an “Internet Smarts” certificate for the great work the school is doing. Teachers and students also received certificates.

Raising children is never easy. The challenges of the internet make it even more stressful. These challenges, however, can be met and overcome. Fortunately, the Seaford school district is providing parents, teachers and children with the tools that are needed.