October 1, 2021

Dear MCPS Community,

Students are part of the digital age. The internet can be an excellent resource for information and connects people in ever-changing ways, such as social media. It can also be a point of vulnerability for children if they don't use it safely. At home and at school, it is our mutual responsibility to impress upon our children the importance of appropriate behavior and how to be safe and respectful digital citizens.

One dangerous trend online, specifically on the social media platform TikTok, is a challenge called 'Devious Licks,' which encourages children toward destructive, dangerous and potentially illegal behavior. This challenge asks students to post videos of themselves stealing, vandalizing or showing off items they've stolen, primarily from their school. Other challenges also encourage violence, theft and harassment.  

The safety of our school communities is a priority, and these types of behaviors are harmful, dangerous, disrespectful and threaten the safe environment of our schools. They will not be tolerated. Any student who engages in these activities jeopardizes the safety of their fellow students and of our schools and will be subject to appropriate discipline as defined in the Student Code of Conduct.

We recognize that the majority of our students are exceptional role models and demonstrate respectful behavior at all times. These acts are not a reflection of our MCPS core values of Learning, Respect, Relationships, Excellence and Equity—values that our students should understand and embrace.

All students have the right to a school environment that is safe, positive and respectful in order to promote student learning. Please speak with your child(ren) and help them understand the severity of this type of behavior and encourage them to operate online sensibly and safely. We've included valuable resources below to help you work with your child and to understand the MCPS Student Code of Conduct and A Student’s Guide to Rights and Responsibilities.

Montgomery County Public Schools

Helpful Resources:

• Digital Citizenship: Your Character Counts
• A Student’s Guide to Rights and Responsibilities (This document in other languages)
• MCPS Student Code of Conduct