I understand, Bill. I worry about my granddaughter all the time. Children are so gullible, and the perves are out there in shockingly big numbers.

I think that availability of instant information brings this kind of activity to the forefront now, and, in years past, the same activity was less likely to garner as much attention. Such activity was denied, ignored or hidden by school, church and public leaders years ago. The internet obviously makes solicitation and sharing of exploitive material much easier and more common.

The good news is, reporting and the dealing of severe personal and legal consequences happens more often now, and the media has generally done a better job of reporting.

On the other end, there are daily, life affirming stories of great people doing great things for others.

Life is different. The hugs I used to share with students are gone. If I leave a classroom and a female wants to talk to me, I move the activity to the hall or do it on a walk back to the area where the dorms are and we're not isolated.

As an educator, you have to conduct yourself in such a way that there is no possibility of a question of the nature of the interaction between you and students. That means some of the trust and closeness is now gone, and that, while a sad sign of the times, is today's reality.

You're doing the right thing. You're aware of the dangers and are watching out for, protecting and supporting your child.

That's what great parents do.


All the best to you and family,


Russ