Students: Read this

Welcome to Nebo School District: Where internet freedom doesn't seem to exist. Especially in recent years, the number of websites getting blocked using ContentKeeper continues to rise, with no proof of why. The movement for this petition is to let us students decide and learn for ourselves what we want to do with technology. When this change is made, we will be able to access a wide range of safe and enjoyable material such as content creation, music streaming, video games, graphic design, artificial intelligence and the creation of AI models, education and learning games, wholesome and uplifting memes, and various forms of not harmful entertainment. Join me in creating a more empowered student body with the freedoms we deserve.

Leaders, parents, and adults: Read this

Preparing Students for the Digital Age
In today's interconnected world, digital literacy is crucial for future success. By allowing students broader access to online resources, we can better prepare them for:

1. Responsible digital citizenship
2. Critical thinking and information evaluation
3. Technological proficiency in various fields

Fostering Creativity and Innovation

Less restricted access to certain online platforms can significantly enhance students' creative abilities:

• Content Creation: Students can develop valuable skills in video production, podcasting, and digital art.
• Graphic Design: Access to online design tools can nurture visual communication skills.
• Artificial Intelligence: Exposure to AI technologies can inspire future innovators and researchers.

Enhancing Educational Experiences
Many online resources can complement traditional learning methods:

• Interactive educational games
• Virtual simulations and experiments
• Access to global educational content

Promoting Self-Directed Learning

Allowing students more freedom in their online activities can

• Encourage independent research skills
• Foster curiosity and self-motivation
• Teach responsible time management

Building Trust and Responsibility

By giving students more autonomy in their internet usage, we can:

• Demonstrate trust in their judgment
• Teach them to make informed decisions about online content
• Prepare them for less restricted internet use in higher education and the workplace

Addressing Mental Health and Well-being

Access to certain online resources can support students' emotional needs:

• Music streaming for stress relief and focus
• Wholesome entertainment for relaxation
• Online communities for peer support and shared interests

While it's crucial to maintain a safe online environment, overly restrictive policies may inadvertently hinder students' growth and development in the digital age. A balanced approach that combines education, guidance, and appropriate access can better prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of the modern world.

What Will Change

If this petition succeeds, Nebo School District will adjust its ContentKeeper Moderations to trust websites it deems safe. It will continue to block websites it deems unsafe (Sexual content, gambling, malware, etc.), however, it will not continue to block sites that NSD deems somewhat distracting 'Non-Managed,' ' +Nebo-Block-All+(Custom),' or '+Nebo-Blocked-2-Students+(Custom)'

Also, NSD will once again open YouTube to simply the "Restricted Mode" rather than hand-approving every video in Student's feeds. Most videos not included are not harmful, simply deemed distracting. NSD will also allow YouTube Mobile, YouTube Music, and YouTube Studio as all of these tools are helpful for content creation or entertainment at home.

Why is this a better option?

Currently, when students exit High School, they will be bombarded with complete internet access, from the completely restricted environment they came from. Students enter the real internet unprepared for what is out there, with no possibility to learn for themselves during their schooling years. Many might say "If you allow video games and music, it will distract the students." However, these things have been found to increase concentration when used in the right manner. Even if they are distracted, it is a wonderful learning opportunity in time management and priorities that ends up shaping better people in the end.