A Message from Dr. Sherman Regarding Internet Safety

Dear Schuylerville Parents/Guardians,

I would like to alert you to an alarming social media challenge targeting children and young adults called the “Momo Challenge.” The purpose of this letter is to make you aware of this challenge, provide you with information about it and urge you to monitor your children’s use of social media and the Internet.

The “Momo Challenge” is a game found on platforms including YouTube, Facebook and the app WhatsApp. It features a frightening avatar who asks its viewers to follow a series of challenges, some of which involve self-harm or suicide. The avatar reportedly threatens viewers who do not follow the game’s orders and encourages them not to tell anyone about the challenge.

The viral challenge has caused concern among schools and parents across the country because of its disturbing nature and its recent appearance in popular kid shows on YouTube, such as Peppa Pig and Fortnite videos.

Our administration and staff work closely with our technology department to address Internet safety and appropriate use of technology, and will continue to do so regarding this challenge. If you have questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your child’s principal and/or school counselor.

For more information on the “Momo Challenge,” along with tips on how to talk to children about the dangers of this challenge, please review the infographic from National Online Safety by clicking here.

Additionally, New York State has put together a webpage with a number of resources to assist you in guiding your children to appropriate use of technology and the Internet: https://its.ny.gov/keeping-kids-safe

Thank you for taking the time to read this important information and for continuing to work with us in an effort to keep our students safe. Again, if you have questions or concerns, please contact your child’s principal and/or school counselor.

Sincerely,

Dr. Ryan Sherman
Superintendent of Schools