Bills look to ban Facebook
Concerns about sexual predators could restrict teacher use of social networking Web sites
Alexandra Nicolas
Issue date: 3/7/08 Section: State News
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If Rep. Jane Cunningham (R-Chesterfield) gets her way, teachers K-12 would be banned from having Facebook, MySpace, or a number of other social networking sites available to their students.
The House passed HB 1314, or the Amy Hestir Davis La. However, the companion piece SB 1212, sponsored by Sen. Victor Callahan (D-Independence) is still under consideration.
The bill, named for a student who was sexually abused by a teacher, address's a number of issues to protect students from sexual predators including annual background checks for teachers and the banning of "non-work related Internet sites." A study by the Associated Press revealed 87 cases of sexual misconduct by a teachers in Missouri from 2001 to 2005
"We are serious about creating a system here in Missouri that will keep sexual offenders out of our classrooms," said Rep. Steve Hunter (R-Joplin)
Though the issue of keeping sexual predators out of schools is one that most have gotten behind, the restrictions caused by illegalizing student/teacher contact via networking sites has created controversy.
"It's just making it harder for teachers to communicate with their students," said Laura Dimmit, senior at Joplin High School, "Mrs. Aubert's group on Facebook saves my life, because I always forget about my meetings."
A number of area high school and middle school teachers employ Facebook and MySpace as a primary way to get a hold of students including popular blogger, author and middle school teacher Randy Turner and high school business teacher Mandy Witt-Aubert.
Extra curricular activities where students don't see their teachers on a regular basis rely on networking sites as opposed to e-mail to maintain a connection with members.
"Facebook became a valuable venue for our clubs," said Aubert, "Joplin High School is so big, announcements do not get around. I don't see my National Honor Society or FBLA students on an everyday basis. If a new community service opportunity comes open I can send out a message or create an event and have information out to all members in a matter of minutes."
Though this bill would not affect students and professors on the collegiate level, a many professors on campus use Facebook to update absent students, post assignments and inform classes of cancellations and changes. Some classes like in Dr. Kelly Larson's Intro to Human Commnications require students to join a Facebook group.
Students also use online networking sites to keep in contact with former teachers. The bill allows for students over 18 to network with their teachers online, but not their younger counterparts.
"I think banning student/teacher interaction on a social networking site like Facebook is absurd," Aubert said, "Sadly, if a teacher were to "prey" on a student, it would happen whether they were on a site like Facebook or not."
Viewing Comments 1 - 7 of 7
former student
posted 3/17/08 @ 11:08 AM CST
Fantastic story.
I really don't think banning teachers and staff from Facebook is the answer for resolving these online predators. And honestly, I don't think there is any way to stop these stupid, young students who don't know how to safely meet new people. (Continued…)
Current Parent
posted 3/19/08 @ 2:21 PM CST
Dear Former Student,
This has nothing to do with "stupidity" when young students get victimized by adults who are placed in roles of authority over them. (Continued…)
George Dennis
posted 7/25/08 @ 6:55 PM CST
Seriously, is this a joke or what. When does a person reach a point that they have nothing better to do then think of the stupidest want to be laws and try to get them passed. (Continued…)
Lemonade Diet
posted 8/06/08 @ 8:26 PM CST
For every law that is made, it restricts the freedom of Americans. They should look for other alternatives than banning people from something.
sandra carmichael
posted 8/16/08 @ 3:29 PM CST
In 2001, my daughter received instant messages from an 8th grade teacher she didn't know. Seems her friend was using our computer and instant messages with the teacher. (Continued…)
El Ojo
posted 8/25/08 @ 3:11 PM CST
Unless the House Elementary and Secondary Education Committee is either 1) dumber than I thought, or 2) just wants to make some headlines and appear as though they're accomplishing something when they're not, this bill will never survive the trip to Legislative Services. (Continued…)
Alumni
posted 9/06/08 @ 12:50 AM CST
This is rediculous... I believe this law would violate the First Amendment which protects Freedom of Speech and Freedom of Association. Unconstitutional! I can't believe the lack of faith this bill shows in our educators. (Continued…)
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