VOICES

As the school year draws to a close, we want all Keys students to know that the digital citizenship values we taught our students at the beginning of this school year are just as relevant today. Just as we teach children how to read and write, we also teach them how to use appropriate online etiquette to stay respectful of others online and behave appropriately. We need to live up to these values even as we spend these last weeks of school.

Grades 1-3: Golden Rules for Young Digital Citizens 

• Use kind words online just like you would in person. 
• Ask permission before using devices or joining new websites. 
• Tell a trusted adult if something online feels uncomfortable. 
• Remember that people online are real people with feelings. Like you would in person, use "please" and "thank you". 

Grades 4-6: Developing Digital Courtesy 

• Think before posting comments or reactions. 
• Avoid ALL CAPS (it looks like shouting). 
• Respect others' privacy and don't share their personal information. 
• Be mindful of tone—text can be easily misinterpreted.

Activities for Parents and Teachers of Grades 1-6 Students:

• Role-play scenarios about kind vs. unkind online comments. 
• Practice asking permission before posting photos of friends. 
• Create simple visual reminders about digital manners.

Grades 7-10: Social Media Manners

• Don't overshare personal details or family matters. 
• Save posting about getting invited to parties you know others can't. 
• Think twice before joining in group criticism or gossip. 
• Give space for differing opinions without immediate judgment. 
• Remember that online actions affect reputation. 

Grades 11-12: Digital Presence Building Toward Adult Digital Citizenship

• Keep all email on-topic and professional / respectful of teachers / mentors / potential employers. 
• Create appropriate usernames and email addresses for academic/professional use.
• Learn that your digital presence may be scrutinized by colleges / employers.
• Balance authenticity with discretion in online presence.

Keep in mind that good online etiquette is not about all-or-nothing rules, but about respect, empathy and responsibility in all spheres.

“Living in a Digital World” is a blog series which features Keys School Manila’s insights and tips on navigating digital tools which will allow students, teachers, and parents to uphold responsible media and technology literacy. This blog is the third in the series.