WDBJ7 Roanoke News and Weather NRV Lynchburg Danville | Do you know what your children are posting on their MySpace or Facebook pages?
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We have a warning for parents about what their kids may be posting on the internet.
You'll find plenty of inappropriate pictures posted by local high school students on MySpace and Facebook. We found examples of underage drinking, a student holding a gun and pointing it at the camera, and even a few that are sexual in nature.
Caroline Overfelt is the e-learning coordinator for Roanoke County schools. One of her responsibilities is to call parents when she finds inappropriate pictures. But this isn't just a Roanoke County problem. We found examples in Salem, Franklin County, and Roanoke City.
Roanoke City only investigates MySpace and Facebook postings when it's brought to their attention. But the school system points out beginning next year internet safety will be part of the core curriculum. However, educators say it's not their sole responsibility to police these sites. Parents also need to take the lead.
Overfelt believes colleges and employers are now checking these sites. So what should parents do? Experts tell us you should place computers in common family areas in your home. They also recommend you check these sites regularly, even if it means invading your child's privacy.
