Hello, fellow Floridians.

Across our state, the signs are unmistakable. The afternoon heat feels alittle more familiar, summer camps are winding down, and the back-to-schoolsales are in full swing. This season of transition is filled with excitementand anticipation for our children. It represents a fresh start, newfriendships, and new opportunities to learn and grow.

However, as we prepare our children with new backpacks and schoolsupplies, we at the Protect Our Children Project urge every parent,guardian, educator, and community leader in Florida to equip them with the mostimportant tool of all: safety.

The end of summer does not mean an end to the risks our children face. Infact, new routines bring new challenges. Now is the critical time to reinforceour commitment to their protection, together. This is a shared responsibility,and it requires a collaborative effort across every aspect of a child’s life.

Here’s how we can work together to build a shield of protection aroundour children as they head back to school.

The Digital Playground: Re-Establishing Online Boundaries

Summer often means more screen time. As school begins, online activityshifts from entertainment to education, communication, and social networking.Let’s ensure this transition is a safe one.

• Parents: Have the     "Tech Talk." Sit down with your children and review the rules     for online engagement. Discuss cyberbullying, the permanence of digital     footprints, and the danger of sharing personal information with strangers.     Review the privacy settings on their social media apps and gaming     platforms.
• Educators: Integrate digital citizenship into your curriculum from day one. Teach students how     to be responsible and respectful online. Establish clear policies for the use of school-issued devices and networks.
• Community  Leaders: Host workshops for parents on navigating parental controls and monitoring software. Knowledge is power, and many parents need guidance on this ever-changing digital frontier.

Protecting a child is not a task for one person alone. It takes all ofus.

• Parents, you are the first line of defense. Your conversations, your awareness, and your involvement are irreplaceable.
• Educators, you are our essential partners. You create safe environments where our children spend their days and can spot warning signs that others might miss.
• Coaches, faith     leaders, and program directors, you are trusted mentors. Your commitment to upholding the highest standards of safety builds a culture of protection.

As we turn the page from summer to a new school year, let’s make aunified pledge. Let’s pledge to communicate openly, to remain vigilant, and towork together.

The safety of Florida's children is not negotiable, and ourefforts to protect them must be unwavering.

Visit our website at www.pocp.org to find a Back-to-School SafetyChecklist and other resources for your family and community.

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