Cyberbullying. Sextortion. Online predators.
These aren’t just distant headlines; they’re real risks impacting students in every community, including ours. That’s why District 127 was proud to host nationally recognized cyber safety expert Jesse Weinberger for a week of powerful learning with staff, students, and families.
Over the course of five days, Jesse met with nearly every corner of our community:
1 districtwide professional development session with all staff
2 student services meetings at GCHS and GNHS with counselors, social workers, school psychologists, wellness and prevention staff, deans, SROs, and administrators
8 grade-level student assemblies (90 minutes each)
2 family seminars, drawing 300+ parents, including families from neighboring communities
2,000+ anonymous student surveys collected, analyzed, and shared
The impact was immediate. Students heard honest, eye-opening insights about how online choices affect their safety, privacy, and mental health. Parents walked away with practical tools to set boundaries, support their children, and navigate an increasingly complex digital world.
“As a district, we believe in empowering our families with the same urgency and care that we provide inside our classrooms,” said Superintendent Dr. Mikkel Storaasli. “This week reflected our Portrait of a Learner, helping students become principled and resilient both online and offline.”
Thank you to Jesse Weinberger for her candor and expertise, and to our staff, families, and students for engaging fully in these crucial conversations. Together, we are making D127 a safer, smarter, and stronger community.