TARGET: School Website guidelines

[Melinda White <mlwhite@osd.wednet.edu>]

I am the teacher coordinator in what is to be primarily a
student-created school home page.  I received a copy of guidelines from
the district office which delineates what can and cannot be posted. One
thing that I was disappointed to read was that no students can be
identified or individual or group photos posted on the site.  We had
hoped to include lots of recognition for individual and group
achievement in academics, sports, fine arts, leadership, etc.  I would
like to receive from you a copy of or a summary of the webpage
guidelines that your school and/or district employs.  I understand the
reason for such restrictions is to protect the kids from the "sick-o's"
that lurk out there, but is it really possible with just a photo and
name for people to get home or personal information about how to contact
kids for illicit purposes?  Our local newspapers feature outstanding
athletes of the week, exemplary student achievement, etc. Why can't a
website do the same?  Couldn't we create webpage guidelines that
applaude but also protect kids?  Maybe we could ask parental permission
to post their child's name/photo, etc?  I don't know.  I am just at the
beginning of the project, and would like your input.  I will post a HIT
if there are sufficient replies.

Thanks!
--
Melinda White
Library Media Specialist
Jefferson Middle School
2200 Conger Avenue NW
Olympia,  WA  98502
360-753-8985
360-664-2665 (fax)
E-Mail:  mlwhite@osd.wednet.edu