Texas School District Launches DigiWise Task Force for Online Safety

The United Independent School District (UISD) in Texas has initiated a comprehensive task force named DigiWise aimed at enhancing online safety for students and parents. Unveiled on October 3, 2023, the task force will address critical issues such as cyber bullying and responsible technology use, ensuring that both students and their families are equipped to navigate the digital landscape safely.

Focus Areas of DigiWise Initiative

DigiWise will concentrate on four key priorities: establishing safety guidelines, preventing cyber bullying while promoting kindness online, advocating for responsible screen time, and ensuring students’ safety in online environments. This initiative is part of a broader strategy that includes new cellphone restrictions during school hours, which aim to minimize distractions and foster healthier technology habits among students.

The task force will bring together UISD leaders, local law enforcement, community organizations, and nonprofits to deliver educational presentations in classrooms and enhance outreach efforts to parents. During the launch, Webb County Judge Tano Tijerina officially proclaimed August as Digital Wellness and Safety Online Habits Month in Webb County, emphasizing the necessity of equipping students with the knowledge and tools to use technology responsibly.

Community and Parental Engagement

In her remarks, UISD Board of Trustees member Michelle Molina highlighted the district’s responsibility to educate both students and parents about the potential dangers associated with technology. “As important as technology is, it can also be very dangerous,” Molina stated, drawing parallels between DigiWise and a previous task force formed to address vaping. She noted that each campus now includes private spaces for students to access mental health services, recognizing the growing prevalence of bullying, including cyber bullying.

Judge Tijerina further underscored the importance of adult role models in guiding youth by encouraging them to reflect on their own online behaviors. “We need to be that example for our young children and young adults,” he remarked, noting his own cautious approach to engaging with the public online due to his role on the Texas Commission on Judicial Conduct.

Dr. Gerardo Cruz, the UISD Superintendent, emphasized the initiative’s goal of helping parents understand the risks of cellphones and social media. He pointed out that middle school students are particularly vulnerable to misinformation and online bullying. “It does take a village,” Cruz stated, reinforcing the idea that community collaboration is crucial for ensuring the social, emotional, and digital wellness of youth.

As the DigiWise task force moves forward, it aims to create a safer digital environment for students and empower families with the knowledge they need to navigate this increasingly complex online world.