“Today is World Teacher’s Day and what better way to celebrate than by encouraging teachers to help promote the Youth Manifesto principles. Teachers are some of the most important people in a young person’s life. They help them to grow and learn, but most importantly they can help them stay safe on the internet. My mom has been a teacher for 26 years and just entered a new position as an Assistant Principle. One of her main concerns with her students is making sure that they stay safe, not only in school, but also in the digital world. Specifically, she monitors their usage when they use devices in her classroom and makes sure that they are using only sites that she has recommended. The sites that she uses are all educational, in regards to math and the other subjects that she teaches. She has kept a safe and fun classroom for many years.

“Teacher’s nowadays have an even harder task of keeping every student safe on the internet. The Youth Manifesto principles, which can be found here, are an overview of what youth want to see happen for a ‘better internet’. They want to be safe just as much as teachers want them to be safe. Teachers are encouraged to introduce these principles to their students and teach them how to be safe online. And, of course, if a teacher doesn’t know about these principles, students are encouraged to show them to their teachers and encourage them to share and discuss the principles with the rest of the class.

“Teachers, you are appreciated for everything you have done for the students you see every day. You make a lasting impact on the lives of young people and this cannot be overlooked. Thank you for everything you do keep students safe and secure.”

Laken is a 20 year-old exchange student from Furman University in the United States, currently based in Brussels as part of her studies. She is currently on part time placement with the eSafety Team of European Schoolnet, while continuing her academic studies at Vesalius College.