Public secondary schools; Internet safety education required, report.
The introduction of this bill aims to enhance the Internet safety skills of students, recognizing the growing importance of digital literacy in today's world. By integrating these objectives into the curriculum, the bill reinforces the notion that students should be equipped not only with academic knowledge but also with skills to navigate online dangers effectively. The potential implications for state law include the establishment of new educational requirements for secondary education, which could affect funding allocations and resource development for schools across Virginia.
House Bill 706 mandates that public secondary schools in Virginia develop and implement an Internet safety education curriculum for students in grades six through twelve. It directs the Board of Education to create these objectives, which must cover vital topics such as online privacy, social media safety, digital footprints, and identifying online predators. In consultation with relevant stakeholders like law enforcement and educational entities, the Board is also tasked with developing a model curriculum that can be adopted statewide.
Despite the apparent benefits, there are points of contention surrounding the bill, particularly regarding the implementation of the model curriculum and the required training for teachers. Critics argue that the bill may place additional burdens on schools and educators, who may lack the resources or training necessary to deliver this new content effectively. There are concerns about ensuring that the curriculum remains relevant and adaptable to the constantly changing landscape of online safety. As these discussions unfold, various stakeholders will likely propose amendments or additional support frameworks to ensure the successful implementation of the bill's requirements.