Date: September 18, 2026
Dear Parent/Guardian:
West Virginia law requires all public schools to provide annual instruction on safe and responsible technology use to students in grades 3-12 through the Safety While Accessing Technology (SWAT) Education Program. These annual lessons focus on digital safety and citizenship, including topics such as recognizing online predators, understanding the dangers of sharing explicit content, cyberbullying prevention, and human trafficking awareness. This requirement was established by West Virginia Senate Bill 466, enacted during the 2024 Regular Session.
As directed by the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE), Taylor County Schools has implemented a change in the delivery model of these lessons beginning this school year. Unlike last year, when students completed digital lessons independently, students will now receive CyberSWAT instruction through teacher-led classroom lessons using instructional materials developed and provided by the WVDE.
Through these lessons, students will receive age-appropriate instruction on topics such as:
Safe and responsible use of online communication platforms.
Understanding copyright and appropriate use of digital content.
Encouraging open communication with trusted adults about online interactions.
Identifying, avoiding, and reporting dangerous or illegal online behaviors.
Recognizing cyberbullying, online exploitation, and other digital safety concerns.
Learning about support resources available to children and families who encounter unsafe online situations.
The safety and well-being of our students remain a top priority. Today's students navigate an increasingly digital world, and these lessons are designed to equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed decisions online. By working together, schools and families can help promote safe, responsible, and positive technology use.
If you have any questions about Senate Bill 466, the CyberSWAT Program, or the instructional materials, please do not hesitate to contact your child's school. We value our partnership with families and appreciate your continued support in helping keep students safe both in school and online.
Parents and guardians who would like to review the instructional materials being used in the classroom can access the CyberSWAT lessons, this letter, an optional opt-out form, and additional program information and policies on the Taylor County Schools website.
NOTE: Optional Opt-Out forms must be submitted each school year.
To access these resources:
Visit the Taylor County Schools website at www.taylorcountyboe.net.
Select Parents & Students from the menu.
Click on CyberSWAT Resources.
A direct link to the CyberSWAT Resources page is available at: https://www.taylorcountyboe.net/page/cyberswat-resources
(A printed copy of the optional opt-out form may be requested by contacting your child's assigned school.)
Thank you for your attention to this important initiative and for your continued partnership in supporting student safety and responsible digital citizenship.
Sincerely,
Amy Vandergrift
Director of Technology