Recent sexual assault allegations against a teacher and coach have accelerated a conversation about online safety.
An organization which serves to reduce violence in our homes and communities is not surprised with the news that online deception has resulted in such activity.
Police say 32-year-old Markus Hicks of Paradise used fictitious identities, social media apps and concealment to arrange sexual activity.
Markus Hicks
The Department of Education says it takes any such allegation very seriously but is unable to comment on the case while a police investigation is underway. The department is monitoring the situation, and says further supports will be made available as required.
Valerie Barter, Executive Director of Violence Prevention Avalon East, says they moved fast a few years ago to develop a tool kit for parents when society shifted heavily to online models for many things, including work and education.
Barter says they hear from students and teachers all the time about online predators. They have developed a program which they hope to have included in the classroom.
To go into a school and give a presentation on online safety involves a lengthy approval process through the school board and Department of Education, something which they hope to have changed by next fall.
