As the digital landscape continues to expand, the importance of fostering safe, responsible, and ethical online behavior is more important than ever. In light of this, schools across the nation are actively participating in Digital Citizenship Week October 19-23, 2026. HSD has developed and published generative AI guidance for students, and provides staff with vetted resources that protect student information and personally identifiable information. The nonprofit organization Common Sense Media offers an abundance of free, age-appropriate digital citizenship resources for students, families, and educators on their website. HSD has translated and curated these lessons to provide teachers with a five-day lesson plan for Digital Citizenship Week. Check out the free articles, lessons, and activities on media balance, anti-cyberbullying, data privacy, digital footprints, media literacy, social-emotional learning, civic education, and communication and collaboration skills on the education section of their website. A service we offer to families is a weekly report summarizing their student’s internet use on personal or district-owned Chromebooks when logged in using their HSD credentials. There is also enhanced functionality available - such as the ability to see detailed browsing history and pause internet access outside of school hours - when families sign up for a free account on Securly. We believe this is an appropriate step to keep our students safe and focused on learning while using district technology and credentials. Taking a moment to think before you post, click, send, sign up for, or share something is so important as we consider the broad reach and long life of digital artifacts. Let’s all commit to being informed, ethical, and empathetic online citizens! Our featured event is our Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration. On October 7, HSD students, families, staff, and community members came together for this vibrant celebration filled with music, culture, food, art, and connection. The evening featured performances by staff and students, as well as community-based groups. Student emcees Dalia and Nico helped guide the celebration. A special moment in the evening was recognizing HSD Latino PAC board member and parent Francisca Alonzo as the state-level Migrant Education Program Parent of the Year, honoring her leadership and commitment to students and families. Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating the histories, traditions, languages, and contributions of our Hispanic and Latino communities. Events like this reflect the strong sense of culture, pride, and belonging that help make HSD a welcoming community for all.
