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K-12 DSOs: Use These Online Resources to Help Keep Students Safe


October 27, 2016

As a designated school official at a kindergarten through grade 12 (K-12) school, you play an important role in ensuring the safety of F-1 international students while they study in the United States.

To help you fulfill this important responsibility, there are several free online resources for you to explore.

NetSmartz Educational Outreach Program

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigation’s Child Exploitation Investigations Unit works closely with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) to provide programs and information related to internet risks and preventing exploitation through its NetSmartz educational outreach program. NCMEC’s NetSmartz also offers free age-appropriate resources that help teach children about on- and offline safety.

Safe Place to Learn

You can also use the White House’s Safe Place to Learn resource package. This toolkit provides materials that help K-12 schools maintain a safe and supportive learning environment for students.

The resources in the package include:

  • Guidance for teachers and administrators.
  • Online learning modules for school staff.
  • Information on trauma sensitivity training.
  • Handouts and worksheets that address specific issues encountered by students and staff.

Remember that in the event of an emergency, you should encourage students or a supporting adult to always dial 911 or contact law enforcement and notify you. You should also contact the Student and Exchange Visitor Program if you believe a child is the victim or target of any criminal or fraudulent activity.

Do you want to learn about other programs and resources that can help you keep K-12 international students safe? Read about the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Blue Campaign.

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