Berner Sixth Graders Get a Digital Reality Check

A pair of Nassau County police officers emphasized social media and online safety during a presentation for sixth graders. The Sept. 17 program at Berner Middle School gave students the tools they need to stay safe and make good choices in middle school and beyond.

Officers Teana Grande and Eugene Messmer, from the Nassau County Police Department’s Community Affairs office, addressed topics such as bullying and cyberbullying, social media usage, identifying trusted adults and the pros and cons of the internet. They reminded students that everything they do online becomes part of their digital footprint and could follow them around forever.

The officers discussed actual instances in which students made bad choices online and it led to severe consequences. They cited these examples to give students useful information so they can develop good online habits now and avoid repercussions that could damage their futures.

Dean of Students Kristen Meoli said that this presentation took place early in the school year because many students first receive a cell phone upon entering a middle school, gaining new and expanded access to different apps and platforms. The information provided by officers Grande and Messmer, she explained, supports Berner’s character education program and serves as a reminder of the cell phone and internet usage policies.

“It’s important for students to hear this message from a different voice,” she said. “They hear it at school and we know the conversations are happening at home.”

Principal Jason Esposito added that the behavior and conduct expected of students at school mirrors what’s expected of them in society. The goal is for them to become good citizens and contribute positively to the community.