As use of the Internet grows, so does cyber-abuse through every imaginable method of communication. Web-pages, email hit-lists, online journals and even threatening icons have landed some kids in trouble at home, school and with the law. [see You and the Internet on this site for case examples].
At least a dozen states have passed anti-cyber-bullying laws calling for action including suspension or expulsion, depending on the circumstances. Minnesota, Washington, New Jersey and Oregon have such laws, and others including Florida, Kentucky and Missouri are considering their own versions of the same.
The debate over Internet abuse regards the extent a school can discipline a student for off-campus behavior. Some argue that schools should stay out of these matters when home computers or lap-tops are used away from school to create the so-called offensive message or site. Others argue that if the school environment is disturbed then the school should take action and not look the other way.
Schools are relying on the 1969 Tinker decision in determining whether disciplinary action is called for - whether a disruption is caused at school or if someone’s rights are violated. [see “Do I have complete freedom of expression at school?” on this site under You and School for a review of Tinker]. Some students have been suspended or expelled, and a few have faced criminal charges resulting from their online expression.
Do you know anyone who’s gotten into trouble for what they’ve written or created online? Was the work done at home or at school? If threatening or otherwise offensive, did anything happen to them? What are your thoughts about school oversight of Internet activities done away from school?
