Session focuses on dark side of the ’net

In decades past, students may have worried about bullies on the playground. Today, students need to watch out for bullies online too.

A presentation on cyberbullying and online safety will be held 6:30-7:30 p.m. today at Superior Middle School.

Justin Patchin, an expert on adolescent behaviors online, will give the presentation. The event is free and open to the public.

“Justin Patchin is a co-founder of the Cyberbullying Research Center,” said Bruce Bauer, a technology coach for the Superior school district. “He speaks to groups around the country, and he comes to Superior highly regarded by many others who have heard his presentation.”

Patchin will also speak to all the middle school students during the school day, and in the morning, he will give a presentation to all district principals and administrators.

Wednesday evening’s public presentation will include a basic overview of online technologies used by children and teens today and examples of real-world cyberbullying. Those in attendance will also have the opportunity to ask questions and seek advice on how to deal with concerns they have encountered.

The event is funded as part of the Building Community Capacity through Broadband project, a multi-year project funded by a federal grant.

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