Apps students commonly use:
TikTok
Snapchat
Discord
YouTube
Parent Tip: Rather than trying to monitor every app, focus on open communication and understanding how your student uses these platforms.
ChatGPT
Google Gemini
Microsoft Copilot
Canva AI
Grammarly
Instead of asking...
"How was school?"
Try asking...
Show me something interesting you learned online today.
Did AI help you with homework this week?
Have you seen anything online that didn't seem real?
What app do you use the mostβand why?
What would you do if someone you didn't know contacted you online?
How do you decide whether information online is trustworthy?
These conversations help build trust and encourage students to think critically about their digital experiences.
The following organizations provide reliable, up-to-date information to help families navigate technology, artificial intelligence (AI), digital citizenship, and online safety.
Common Sense Education
Educator and family resources for AI, digital citizenship, media literacy, and responsible technology use.
https://www.commonsense.org/education
Common Sense Media
Reviews of apps, games, movies, social media platforms, and family technology guides.
https://www.commonsensemedia.org
ConnectSafely
Free parent guides on social media, AI, online safety, gaming, privacy, and emerging technology.
https://connectsafely.org
Family Online Safety Institute (FOSI)
Research-based resources to help families build healthy digital habits and online safety practices.
https://www.fosi.org
NetSmartz
Created by the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, NetSmartz offers videos, activities, and resources about online safety and cyberbullying.
https://www.missingkids.org/NetSmartz
CYBER.ORG
Resources focused on cybersecurity awareness, digital safety, and online security education.
https://cyber.org
Google Family Link
Manage Android devices, screen time, and app permissions.
https://families.google/familylink/
Apple Screen Time
Set limits, monitor usage, and manage Apple devices.
https://support.apple.com/en-us/108806
Microsoft Family Safety
Manage Windows and Xbox devices, screen time, and location sharing.
https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/family-safety
Google β Learn About Gemini
Learn how Google's AI tools are being used for learning and productivity.
https://gemini.google
OpenAI β ChatGPT
Information about ChatGPT and responsible AI use.
https://chatgpt.com
π Student Handbook
https://www.petchs.org/student_services/student_services_office/student_handbook
π₯οΈ Technology Department
Email: Tech@petchs.org
π School Counseling Office
-9th and 10th Grade Guidance CounselorΒ
Robyn Jacobs:Β
Email: JacobsR@petchs.orgΒ Β
Office: 267-514-1823 x286
-11th and 12th Grade Guidance CounselorΒ
Kristin Shoemaker
Email: ShoemakerK@petchs.orgΒ Β
Office: 267-514-1823 x222
If you have questions about your student's technology use, AI tools, online safety, or school-issued devices, please get in touch with the Technology Department at tech@petchs.org. We are happy to partner with families to support safe, responsible, and effective technology use.