First-of-a-Kind Cybercivility Task Force Takes Shape in Montgomery County
Students in Montgomery County, MD aim to establish new standards for keeping things respectful online. They, along with a number of adults, are part of a new “Cybercivility Task Force” created by schools superintendent Dr. Joshua Starr.
The group’s goal is to create a toolkit and guidelines for the appropriate use of online technology. Dr. Starr says he wants students – who are the most invested in communicating via social media – to lead the way.
Dr. Starr formed the task force in response to a barrage of uncivil and even threatening messages he received via social media. At the time he was deciding about canceling school after a snow storm. After expressing his concerns in a letter to more than 150,000 parents, he decided asked for volunteers for the panel.
He’s pleased that more than 220 students, teachers, parents, safety experts and community members sent in their applications. In Part 3 of an exclusive conversation with On The Marc Media, Dr. Starr shares his goals for the Task Force.
