Friday, March 30, 2007

There is no such thing as a free ride!

There is no such thing as a free ride. Nothing in life is free. Many of us have heard these sayings  before. Well then, what about Free Speech? This week in the blogosphere we have watched a conversation take place that demonstrates the human cost of free speech, the lasting impression of a few irresponsible words and images.
As 21st Century Citizens we have a responsibility to model responsible, respectful and ethical behavior while using the Internet.
Today and often,  be sure that you talk with your staff, students, parents and community about cost of Free Speech. Our words are powerful. We have a responsibility to use our words to promote our ideas and we have a responsibility to share this knowledge and model good behavior while using the Internet.

All of this conversation should center around how to stopcyberbullying. Today March 30, 2007 is Stop Cyberbullying Day. I expect  this really is the beginning of  stopcyberbullying,  a way of life. Free Speech?  Responsible, respectful and ethical speech.

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5 comments:

Vicki Davis @coolcatteacher said...

Yes! Cheryl! I agree with you totally. It is vital that those of us who are "observers" speak up for next time it may be us, our children, or even some great great grandchild yet to be born. We will inherit what we build today into our classroom curriculum. It is vital that we share and discuss this with our students!

Deborah Barrows said...

Hello,

I also agree with Cheryl.

Deborah Barrows said...

Hello again!

This certainly brought up some thoughts from the past for me! Back in 98-00 I was part of Maine Project Against Bullying: http://lincoln.midcoast.com/~wps/against/bullying.html

At that time we were trying to prevent bullying on the playground and never thought about bullying on the Net! Of course, not many kids had their own accounts or access to bullying on the net.

My wish is for the world to be a happier, peaceful place for everyone. I wish we didn't have to worry about people doing the wrong thing. It seems to easy to fix - I think I'll start right now - from now on... everyone just do the right thing.

Gee, I might have cured the world today.

Cheers,

Deb

Cheryloakes50 said...

Deb and Vicki you are both right on, Keep discussing this with peers, parents and our students.

Durff said...

Happy Cybercompliment Day! You weekly inspire me to keep on keeping on! Thank you for your patience and encouragement!!