I found myself interested in learning about web filtering and device management companies like Securly when my administration recently started looking into options for our school. Though we had previously employed an Internet filter, it was at best moderately effective at filtering nudity and obscenities, and at worst a frustration for teachers as it blocked access to YouTube completely (and often other educational sites, as well). That was several years ago now, so I was interested to discover how web filtering and device management had improved since then and what they had to offer.
I was pleasantly surprised by many of Securly's features. Their web filtering service offers a lot of control and personalization options to teachers and IT administrators, such as the ability to block sites instantly as student activity data appears in a live activity feed. The Securly dashboard appears to be intuitive and functional, and the searchable database and learning portal offer answers, should help be required. I was also intrigued by the device management features Securly offers. The ability to push URLs to student screens, screen share, and lock/freeze student screens sounds very helpful. I've taught grades three and four for several years, and I can attest to how long it can take for all students to be on the same web page, and how distracting that screen can be once it's on if you need to give further directions. This can be the cause of the loss of a lot of learning time, which is why these features could be so beneficial.
While I can see the benefit of other features, such as Securly Aware for monitoring student wellness, I do have my concerns in this area. The 24:7 monitoring of student activity on all devices is very invasive and I would almost fear for student well-being more from being constantly watched than from other sources. I believe that students need to take steps away from adult supervision at a certain point in their lives if they are to become able to make informed decisions on their own. Securly's Aware 24:7 monitoring is no replacement for an open trusting relationship with a guardian and the willingness to talk about difficult topics (bullying, pornography, predators, suicide ideations). As an interested potential client, I would likely opt out of this particular feature (available to parents for free with a school account). The fact that schools can pick and choose features to suit their needs is definitely a selling feature, though.
Taking into account all that I have learned about Securly, I feel that it would make a sound investment opportunity. The company has admirable goals linked to real concerns for student safety and well-being, which looms large currently as a worry for educators and parents, as well. There is a demand for this service and a growing market in which Securly already has a strong foothold. While there are several competing companies out there, Securly seems to be constantly growing, adapting, and adding to its already large portfolio of services. Their AI is already touted as the best in the industry, so I will be interested to see where they go from here.