Westport Middle Schoolers Learn Digital Safety From High School Mentors

WESTPORT, CT – Sixth-grade students at Coleytown Middle School and Bedford Middle School recently participated in the iMentor Program, an educational initiative designed to help students navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.

The program was facilitated by the Westport Youth Commission in partnership with trained Staples High School student mentors.

At both middle schools, Staples High School students led engaging, age-appropriate discussions, which encouraged middle schoolers to think critically about their online behavior and digital decision-making.

During the interactive sessions, sixth graders received guidance on critical topics, including civility and kindness in online interactions, understanding their digital footprint, and identifying online safety risks such as predators and cyberbullying. Students also learned about resource management, including identifying trustworthy websites and managing screen time.

A consistent theme across both presentations was the importance of speaking with a parent, guardian, or other trusted adult if students encounter anything concerning online. Students were encouraged to ask questions throughout the sessions. They engaged directly with the Staples High School iMentors, creating a peer-to-peer learning experience.

"The iMentor Program is a wonderful example of students teaching students," said Thomas Scarice,
Superintendent of Schools, in a statement. "It strengthens digital safety awareness while empowering our high school students as role models and leaders."

The iMentor Program reflects Westport Public Schools’ commitment to supporting students’ social-emotional learning and digital citizenship. It also fosters leadership opportunities for older students.

About the Westport Youth Commission: The Westport Youth Commission is an appointed board of
young people and adults whose mission is to advocate for issues important to the youth of Westport.

— Flyer from Westport Youth Commission and Westport Public Schools