Dawn Lohmann, Director of Communications
On October 15, The Derryfield School welcomed Katie Greer, a renowned internet safety expert, for a series of presentations promoting digital responsibility. Greer’s visit included a separate Community Meeting for upper and middle school students, a lunch with upper school students, and an evening event open to parents and the public titled, “Making Good Choices with Technology: A Parent’s Guide to Your Child’s Digital Life.” The event was made possible by the E. Charles Sanborn Speaker Fund.
With a background in law enforcement and experience advising schools, government agencies, and corporations, Greer brings a unique and practical approach to internet safety. Now pursuing her PhD in Criminology, focusing on teens and technology, she stresses the need for households to find an agreed-upon balance with technology. “I want every household in America to have the education and tools to manage technology in a healthy way,” she said.
Greer explored the digital trends impacting adolescents today during her presentation to students, faculty, and staff. She urged students to reconsider how they use technology and shared strategies for making more intentional online choices.
Key Takeaways from Katie Greer’s Presentation:
- Digital Responsibility: “We are all responsible for our actions online,” Greer emphasized, reminding students that what they post on social media can be seen by millions of people, including potential employers and college admissions officers.
- Digital Footprints: Greer shared real-life examples of how social media posts can impact future opportunities, including rescinded college admissions due to offensive online behavior. “Mistakes I made 20 years ago weren’t chronicled for a lifetime,” she noted, highlighting how today’s digital documentation can have long-term consequences.
- Perception vs. Reality: In a world where anyone can post or share content, Greer encouraged students to consider how their online behavior might be perceived by others, especially when representing themselves or their school.
Greer also shared insights into Derryfield students’ online presence after a brief scan of social media. While she praised the community for generally responsible behavior, she identified areas for improvement—particularly around the need for students to protect personal information, such as birth dates and graduation plans. She also commended Derryfield’s new cell phone policy, noting it as a positive step toward creating healthier digital habits.
During her lunch with upper school students, Greer was impressed by their thoughtful conversation on cyberbullying and Derryfield’s commitment to a positive, inclusive culture. One senior remarked, “DS has created this really cool community where this behavior isn’t allowed or tolerated.” Greer used the moment to challenge students to think about how they can use digital tools to create positive change, reminding them that their online actions leave a lasting imprint. “What we say, do, and post online ‘lives’ on indefinitely,” she said.
The evening session for parents offered practical guidance on navigating technology as a family. Greer emphasized open communication, setting boundaries, and modeling good habits—while also acknowledging that adults can be just as attached to screens as teenagers.
Greer’s visit highlighted the importance of self-awareness and responsibility in the digital age. As Derryfield continues to prioritize student well-being, her message was a timely reminder of how we can all make more thoughtful choices with technology that reflect positively on our future selves. Through her work, Katie Greer encouraged the Derryfield community to take ownership of their digital footprint, embrace the positives of technology, and be mindful of the lasting impact of online choices.
[Note: Director of Wellness, Courtney Cheetham, will include additional resources for parents (provided by Katie Greer) within the October 30 issue of Nuts & Bolts.]
