LISD Flyer: Sexting (English)

Students Sharing Visual Material Depicting Minor Engaged in Sexual Conduct: Dangers and consequences of sexting, as well as the related issues of bullying, cyberbullying, and harassment.

Teens may not believe or be able to foresee a situation in which the person they send a sext chooses to share that image with others. However, it does happen and the consequences can be academically, socially, and emotionally devastating.

Sexting—the sharing of sexually explicit messages, images, or videos via digital devices—is increasingly common among students, especially teens. But it carries serious risks that many students (and even parents) don’t fully understand.

Teens that sext may experience:

Legal Consequences

• Possessing, sending, or receiving explicit images of minors (even if it’s consensual and the sender is also a minor) can be considered child pornography under many laws.

• Students can face: Criminal charges; Juvenile sex offender registration; Expulsion from school

Loss of Control Over Images

• Once an image is sent, the sender loses all control over who sees it.
  
• Images can be: Shared without consent; Posted online permanently; Used for bullying, blackmail, or revenge
  

Emotional and Social Impact

• Shame, anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts can follow when explicit images are leaked or misused.
  
• Victims of sexting-related shaming often face: Cyberbullying; Social isolation; Academic decline
  

Coercion and Exploitation

• Many sexting situations involve pressure, manipulation, or threats (e.g., "If you love me, you’ll send it").

• Some students may be groomed by older individuals or strangers online pretending to be peers. This can lead to sexual exploitation, harassment, or trafficking.
  

  
  

Digital Footprint & Future Consequences

• Employers, colleges, and scholarship boards often review social media or conduct online background checks.

• A leaked or discovered image—even years later—can damage: Reputation; Career opportunities; College admissions

Protective factors for students against sexting include strong social support systems, including supportive families and friends, as well as a high level of self-esteem. Additionally, providing education about the risks and consequences of sexting is crucial. Furthermore, open communication and clear expectations from parents/caregivers, and a sense of belonging at school, can also act as protective factors.

How to Help Students Stay Safe:

• Teach consent, privacy, and the permanence of digital content.

• Encourage students to never send or share explicit images—even as a joke or under pressure.

• Promote the idea that respecting others’ privacy is just as important as protecting your own.

• Make sure they know it’s okay to say no—and they can always talk to a trusted adult.

• Start open, judgment-free conversations early about online behavior.
• Teach consent and respect in digital communication.
• Monitor online activity while respecting your child’s privacy.
• Know the apps your child is using (Snapchat, Instagram, etc.).

• Think before you send: Once it’s out there, you can’t take it back.
• Set boundaries: You have the right to say NO—even to someone you care about.
• Talk to a trusted adult if you feel pressured or afraid. Your parent/caregiver, a school counselor or teacher, administrator, and SRO are just some examples of the people you may tell.

If you receive a text, image, video, etc. that could be considered sexting, do NOT forward it or show the image to anyone. You should ALWAYS REPORT it immediately by contacting a trusted, responsible adult who can help.

Each grade level has Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) standards or guidelines that reference digital citizenship and digital literacy. Digital citizenship education is also a federal mandate.

Lewisville ISD has made a commitment to building digital citizenship skills for all students. This is a multifaceted approach including a stand-alone curriculum and lessons integrated into the content area curriculum. Campus teams are encouraged to provide additional opportunities for students to build upon these valuable skills. The infographic below outlines topics for the stand-alone curriculum by grade level.

Reach out to your student's school counselor today! 😀