Dos & Don’ts

Mastering the legal implications of student blogs is simpler than it seems.

DO Bar access to social networking sites and student blogs on school premises. 
DON’T Implement a policy that censors student speech on blogs not associated with the school and posted off campus, and don’t forbid students from having accounts on these sites unless they are legally too young to do so.

DO Send a letter home to parents. They’re often unaware that kids as young as 12 are using these sites illegally (MySpace.com doesn’t allow users under age 14). 
DON’T Inflict strict punishments for speech posted on personal blogs off school premises (but if it involves a threat or violation of law, then alert the authorities).

DO Start an open dialogue with schools and students about the difference between what is technically legal and what is socially appropriate. And include a discussion of safety as well. Many students don’t realize they could attract sexual predators by posting personal information online. 

The EFF offers information on student bloggers’ rights and responsibilities that could help you develop your own dialogue to have with students and parents. Visit the FAQ section of the web site at www.eff.org/bloggers/lg/faq-students.php.