Technology Use and Driving

As kids are headed back to school this year, the roads will be busier with new and inexperienced drivers. Utah State Law provides guidelines for teenage drivers. Click here for Utah's Teen Drivers Guide.   These drivers are also likely to fall into the category of kids who have access to technology. In addition to basic diving rules, it is important to set expectations for responsible use of technology in car for kids and teenagers, whether they the driver or the passenger.  A few tips and reminders listed here, are a good place to start.

• Wear safety belt, follow driving and traffic laws and obey signs.
• No cell phone use while driving: this includes talking and texting.
• Limit cell phone use while riding as the passenger in a teenage driver's vehicle. This will limit the distraction to the new driver.
• Lower the volume on the radio and music. Be aware of emergency vehicles and limit distractions.
• Limit nighttime driving.  Utah Law states that teen drivers under 17, may not drive between Midnight and 5 a.m. (See exceptions)
• Parents: Be a good example while you are driving and your teenager will be more likely to follow your rules and expectations.

An example of a Parent/Teen Driving Agreement can be found here and is provided by the National Safety Council.  

Summer Internet Safety

School is out and summer is here!  This allows kids more time to interact digitally.  We want to teach our students to be good digital citizens and be safe online this summer and always.  Common Sense Media has created a media agreement for parents and kids.  There is an agreement for grades K-5, 6-8, and 9-12.  This can be a great resource for parents in establishing guidelines and expectations for kid's online behavior and use.  It can guide conversations and help students learn how to be safe online.  This article provides more information, videos, and resources on internet safety for the summer.  

The video titled Why Online Privacy Matters helps parents, teachers, and kids know the importance of keeping personal information safe.  Help your students stay safe and enjoy your summer break!

Download the Family Media Agreement here.

Parent Connections- New Site!

Parents Connections is a new website full of resources for parents!  This is a tool to assist teachers and parents in educating our students.  One of the main goals of the Parent Connections team is to inform parents and students about the importance of Online Safety.  Although technology provides many positive results, there are also dangers lurking if not used correctly.  Teachers can refer parents to this site to answer questions and provide useful and important information.

The features available for elementary teachers and parents include:

• K-5 Online Safety brochures and resources
• Skyward Family Access tutorials
• Pearson SuccessNet tutorials and information
• Homework resources
• Access to the I-Canyons Parent Tool Kit for report card information
• Information and guides for volunteering in the schools

The features available for secondary teachers and parents include:

• 6-12 Online Safety brochures and resources
• Skyward Family Access tutorials
• Homework resources
• Information and guides for volunteering in the schools
• Information about Google Apps for Canyons and Chromebooks
• Canvas Resources coming soon!

Come check out the resources available at the Parent Connections Website today!