Is this email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. Date: January 26, 2018

elementary students at recess

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A Message from Montgomery County Public Schools: Staying Safe Online

Dear MCPS Community:

I am writing to share concerning information about social media activity that has been brought to our attention and to provide you with resources for keeping your child safe online.

Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) has received multiple reports from community members that one or more individuals is posting inappropriate content on a private social media platform, including nude images of MCPS students. It is our understanding that many of the nude images on the private site were taken by or with the consent of the students appearing in the photos.

MCPS is committed to preparing students for the digital world. As part of this commitment, we partner with Common Sense Education to provide instruction and resources for students to safely and successfully engage online. These resources can be found on the MCPS website at http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/digital-citizenship/index.html.  Please take a moment to review the materials and speak to your children about the choices they make in this digital age. Additionally, please continue to monitor their use of technology.

The safety of our students is paramount. MCPS has contacted the Montgomery County Police Department about this matter and they are investigating it. If you believe your child has interacted with or has information about this matter, I encourage you to contact police at 240-773-5400. In addition, schools also have counseling staff available to support students as needed.

Thank you for your support and partnership as we work together to ensure the safety of our students.

Sincerely,

Derek Turner
Director of Communications