THE ROAD MAP

In this newsletter, you’ll find:

🚦 First stop (TikTok accounts impersonate teachers)

🛤️ Site-seeing at mylemarks.com (check out what’s new)

📡 On the Radar (Parent’s illness, schools falling short, and more)

📊 Results are in (Poll results from the last edition)

✍🏽 U(r)-Turn (Let’s hear from you)

🤗 Sharing is Caring (spread the mylemarker love and earn)

Let’s go!

FIRST STOP

🏫 TikTok Accounts Impersonate Teachers

Great Valley Middle School in Malvern, Pennsylvania, is addressing a social media issue where fake TikTok accounts impersonated teachers, using their names, initials, and photos. The accounts, which have since been removed, posted inappropriate content, including explicit language and imagery. The school district became aware of the issue on June 30 and promptly took steps to have the accounts taken down. The district contacted TikTok to report the issue and prevent further impersonation.

The school reminded students and parents about responsible social media use and the importance of online safety. Superintendent Daniel Goff informed parents of the situation and reassured them that the district takes the issue seriously. An investigation is underway to determine who created the fake accounts, and disciplinary action is being considered against those responsible, and some teachers reported that several students were “briefly suspended”.

The incident highlights the need for monitoring social media use and understanding the potential consequences of online actions. The district is taking the matter seriously to ensure a safe and respectful online environment for students, teachers, and staff. They have since removed teacher photos and personal information from the school’s website and social media platforms. By addressing this issue, the school aims to promote responsible social media behavior and maintain a positive online presence.

RELATED: A Deep Dive Into TikTok’s Sketchy Mental Health Advice

✨Check out our exploring TikTok worksheet to help kids and teens explore their relationship and experience with the social media platform. Additional social media sheets can be found here.

SITE-SEEING at mylemarks.com

What’s New!

Check out these newly added resources to our online store.

Respect My Rule
A boundary is a rule that helps you feel safe and comfortable. Sometimes, people might cross your boundary by getting too close, touching you in a way you don't like, or saying something that makes you feel uneasy. You get to decide what feels okay for you. Use this worksheet to come up with things you can say to someone who crosses your boundary.

✨ RELATED: My Boundaries and Setting Boundaries.

Small, Medium, and BIG Problems
Every day you’ll face many challenges. Some big, some small, and some in between! Learn how to handle the different size problems that you might experience during the day.

✨ RELATED: The Size of My Problem

ON THE RADAR

💬 Telling Kids the Truth About a Parent's Illness

When a parent is struggling with mental or physical health issues, it's essential to be honest with their children about what's happening. While it may be tempting to shield them from the truth, experts agree that honesty is crucial, even if it's uncomfortable. Children often sense when something is wrong and may imagine worse scenarios if left in the dark. A key consideration is the difference between adult and child grief: adults understand the permanence of loss, while children may experience waves of grief as they develop cognitively and emotionally.

Being open and truthful can help kids feel secure and build trust. It's important to consider the child's age and developmental stage when sharing information, using age-appropriate language and examples. By being honest and transparent, parents can help their kids develop resilience and coping skills. Honesty also allows children to process their emotions and grieve healthily, rather than internalizing their feelings or developing misconceptions.

📚 Mo Willems' New Book Teaches Kids About Emotions and Empathy

Renowned children's author Mo Willems has released a new book, "Are You Small?", a non-fiction picture book designed for children aged 3-5. This charming book explores the concept of size and scale, inviting young readers to consider their place in the world. "Are You Small?" encourages children to think critically about spatial relationships and relative sizes. In the article, Willems also shares valuable insights for fostering creativity in children, emphasizing the importance of encouraging curiosity, asking open-ended questions, and embracing mistakes as opportunities for growth. He also suggests providing children with materials and space to explore and celebrating their unique perspectives and ideas.

RELATED: How to Get Kids to Read for Fun

🚨 Schools Fall Short in Supporting Students with Disabilities

According to a recent report, students with disabilities are facing increased discrimination in schools. The report found that students with disabilities are more likely to be disciplined, restrained, or secluded than their peers without disabilities. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires public schools to provide students with disabilities with a free and appropriate education, but many schools are falling short. The report highlights instances of students with disabilities being denied necessary accommodations, such as extra time to complete assignments or the use of assistive technology. Some students have even been subjected to physical restraint or seclusion as a means of discipline.

The report also notes that students of color with disabilities are disproportionately affected by these practices. The U.S. Department of Education has launched an investigation into the allegations. Advocates are calling for greater oversight and accountability to ensure that students with disabilities receive the support and services they need. The report's findings underscore the need for greater inclusivity and accessibility in schools.

💔 Sadfishing: Exaggerating Emotional Struggles on Social Media

Sadfishing is a term used to describe the behavior of exaggerating or fabricating emotional problems on social media to garner sympathy and attention. This trend has raised concerns about the authenticity of online cries for help and the potential negative impacts on mental health. People may engage in sadfishing for various reasons, including attention-seeking, low self-esteem, and a lack of social support. Sadfishing can be identified by exaggerated or vague posts, cryptic messages, and a lack of context. This behavior can erode trust and minimize real mental health issues, and can also have negative effects on the individual's mental health. It's essential to be aware of sadfishing and approach online cries for help with a critical and supportive mindset.

RESULTS ARE IN

In the last edition of the mylemarker, we asked, Outside of boredom, what other summer break-related issues are you experiencing with your clients? from our feature article from Medical Xpress. See the results and a few responses below!

U(R)-TURN

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