Digital Citizenship Handbook
For True North Virtual Participants

Welcome

As a member of our virtual True North community, homeschool parents and students are expected to demonstrate digital citizenship at all times. This means using technology responsibly, respectfully, and safely. This handbook outlines the key expectations to help homeschool parents and students succeed and represent with excellence in an online environment.

Core Digital Citizenship Norms for homeschool parents & students

1. Respect Others

   • Use kind and appropriate language in chat boxes, video calls, emails, and on social media

   • Mute yourself when not speaking to minimize distractions

   • Allow others to finish speaking before responding

2. Be Prepared and Engaged

   • Log in on time with materials ready

   • Use your real name (or initials) and keep your camera on (if possible) to show presence

   • Participate actively and contribute where needed

3. Use Technology Responsibly

   • Stay on task—only use tools and tabs related to your lesson

   • Do not share meeting links or login details with others

   • Ask permission before recording or taking screenshots

4. Protect Privacy and Safety

   • Never share personal information like your address or phone number

   • Do not post inappropriate content, links, or images

   • Report unsafe or suspicious behavior to a parent or adult right away

5. Practice Good Netiquette (Internet Etiquette)

• Use emojis, gifs, and text respectfully—no spamming or distracting the group

• Let others contribute and listen actively

• Respect all opinions, even if you disagree

Digital Citizenship Contract

As a Digital Citizen of the True North Community, I promise to:

• Be kind and respectful to my classmates / teammates

• Be honest and responsible online

• Take care of my tech tools and time

• Keep myself and others safe

• Represent myself, family, and the True North community with excellence online

Tips for a Great Virtual Experience

• Choose a quiet, distraction-free environment for your virtual experience (e.g., class, meeting, etc.)

• Charge your device and test your internet before joining

• Have your materials ready

• Be patient—technical glitches happen and we’re all learning together!

Want help teaching this to your younger students (especially grades 4-7)?

Check out these resources:

• “Pause & Think Online” video by Common Sense Education: From our head down to our toes, and our feet up to our nose, the Digital Citizens teach students how to be safe, responsible, and respectful online.

• “We the Digital Citizens” video by Common Sense Education: In this video, students can explore the amazing possibilities that come with using technology. They’ll also learn from The Digital Citizens, who take a pledge to be safe, responsible, and respectful when traveling through the online world.

Updated: August 2025