Dear EXCEL Academy Families,
This message is to inform you of a serious concern regarding a TikTok account that has come to our attention, named Excel.tea (@Excel.tea), which is reportedly circulating among our 5th-grade students.
We have received information indicating that this account is being used to spread rumors about potential fights in our hallways involving students. Additionally, the account is reportedly discussing relationships and other private matters related to EXCEL Academy students.
The creation and sharing of such content raise significant concerns regarding student safety, privacy, and the potential for misinformation and cyberbullying. Spreading rumors about fights can create unnecessary anxiety and fear among our student body and can also escalate tensions between individuals. Sharing private information about students online is a serious breach of privacy and can have detrimental effects on their well-being and social-emotional health.
We want to be clear: EXCEL Academy does not endorse or condone the creation or sharing of such content. We are taking this matter very seriously and are taking immediate steps to address it, including:
- Investigation: We are actively investigating the origin and content of this account.
- Student Education: We will be reinforcing with our students the importance of online safety, responsible social media use, and the potential consequences of spreading rumors and sharing private information. This will include discussions on cyberbullying and respecting the privacy of others.
- Support for Affected Students: We will be reaching out to any other students who may be affected by the content on this account to offer support and ensure their safety and well-being.
- Collaboration with Families: We urge you to speak with your children about the responsible use of social media and the potential dangers of engaging with accounts that spread rumors or share private information. Please monitor your child's online activity and discuss the importance of digital citizenship.
- Reporting to TikTok: We are exploring options for reporting this account to TikTok for violating their community guidelines.
We understand that social media is a part of our students' lives, but it is crucial that they understand the importance of using these platforms responsibly and ethically. Creating and engaging with accounts that spread harmful rumors or violate privacy is unacceptable and will be addressed in accordance with our school's code of conduct.
We appreciate your partnership in ensuring a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for all our students, both online and offline. If you have any information regarding this TikTok account or any other concerns about student safety or well-being online, please do not hesitate to contact us directly.
Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook:
"The increasing availability of technology creates both opportunities and risks for students. Since the potential for harm from the misuse of technology is significant, PGCPS has established guidelines by which students can use technology in a legal, safe, productive, and ethical manner."
"All use of technology under these guidelines is to be for legitimate educational purposes under the guidance or direction of school system staff. The following conduct is prohibited while using the PGCPS network":
- Post anonymous messages or in any way misrepresent one’s own identity;
- Use abusive, harassing or otherwise objectionable language in any message;
Definition:
Cyberbullying is bullying that takes place over digital devices like cell phones, computers, tablets, or other electronic communication. Cyberbullying can occur through texting, apps, or online via social media, forums, or gaming, where people can view, participate in, or share content. Cyberbullying includes sending, posting, or sharing negative, harmful, false, or hurtful content about another student. It can include sharing personal or private information about someone else, causing embarrassment or humiliation. “Electronic communication” means a communication transmitted by means of an electronic device, including, but not limited to, a telephone, cellular phone, computer, or pager.
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This account will be reported, and Ms. Byrd's expectation is that this account and any like it be removed from TikTok in 24 hours. Your digital footprint follows you, boys and girls. Let's display good digital citizenship at all times. It is my hope that I do not have to take severe actions with respect to consequences regarding this page if it is not removed.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Principal Byrd
