WREX.com – Rockford’s News LeaderState pushing internet safety message to students

State pushing internet safety message to students

UNDATED (WREX) - Illinois launches its first statewide Internet safety contest to raise awareness about the dangers of the Internet.

State Superintendent of Education Christopher A. Koch and Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan shared the details of the Youth Internet Safety Contest with students at Springfield's Lincoln Magnet School Tuesday.

Students are being asked to create either a poster or electronic message addressing Internet safety and cyber-bullying.

"Teaching children how to safely navigate the Internet is as important as telling them to look both ways before they cross the street,'' said Koch. "The dangers may not be as evident but they are real. This contest as well as a new requirement to incorporate Internet safety into the curriculum starting in third grade can help raise awareness about good Internet practices to keep children out of harm's way.''

"Internet safety education is now an essential part of our school curriculum here in Illinois and I believe it is an important tool in our arsenal to protect children from potential threats posed by Internet predators,'' said Attorney General Madigan. ``Many of our children and teens are exposed to dangers online that can be avoided by empowering them with ways to stay safer. This contest is a terrific vehicle for getting them thinking and talking about ways to be safe online."

The contest is open to students in grades first through 12. All entries must be submitted in an electronic media format (video, podcast or slideshow) to the Illinois State Board of Education by March 31, 2010. Winners will be announced in May.

Contest rules, terms and conditions: http://www.isbe.net/curriculum/html/internet_safety.htm