Anti-Cyberbullying Program Coming to Clarke, EM High Schools

An anti-cyberbullying program is coming to W.T. Clarke and East Meadow high schools.

Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen Rice will present “STOP Then Send” at W.T. Clarke High School on Wednesday, Nov. 20 and at East Meadow High School on Wednesday, Dec. 18. Both multi-media presentations will begin at 8:15 a.m.

The program is intended to teach kids, and parents, about the dangers of cyber-bullying, sexting, Internet predators and social-networking websites, Rice said.

“New technology and social networking sites have taken harassment and intimidation to new and increasingly dangerous levels,” Rice said.

“This program created by my office will not only educate students, parents and teachers about the dangers of cyber-bullying and the Internet, but it will also send a strong message to young people that the decision to press ‘send’ can have far-reaching and devastating consequences to themselves and others.”

The program focuses on four factors students should consider before sending an abusive text message, inappropriate photo or insulting message board post or when using social networking sites, such as Facebook or Twitter: 

• Study the content
• Think of others
• Only send if appropriate
• Photographs are forever

The DA's office launched www.stopbullyingli.org last year to offer tips and resources. The website also features a public service announcement starring Justin Bieber and a local cyber-bullying victim.

For more information on Internet safety and DA Rice’s Technology Crimes Unit, visit http://www.nassaucountyny.gov/agencies/DA/internet.html.