During an afternoon presentation, Sgt. Michael Woodroof spoke with students at Lucerne Valley Elementary School. Here students raise their hands after “Sgt. Mike” asked a question about internet safety. [Photo by Peter Day]

Whether a student is in high school, middle school or elementary school, chances are they will be using a cell phone to surf the web or connect with friends on social media. Guarding yourself against potential dangers is imperative, according to Cyber Safety Cop presenter Sgt. Michael Woodroof.

“What decision are you going to make — one that’s extraordinary, or one that’s devastating?” Woodroof asked Lucerne Valley students during one of four cyber safety assemblies at Lucerne Valley schools on April 18. “It’s a choice.”

Mindful of age-appropriate words and tone, Woodroof tailored each presentation to communicate the importance of using caution when going online.

“How long does something stay on the web?” he asked Lucerne Valley Middle School students who gathered for the event in the school gymnasium. “Forever,” Woodroof answered, and avoiding problems is a first step to using the internet. “If you wouldn’t want your picture on the home page of your school website then don’t take the picture.”

He said that young people need to think about choices that will help their lives in the long run.

“You’re brain’s not fully developed,” he said. “You’re not fully understanding the consequences. I’m thinking about the rest of your life, not how you feel at the moment. If you know you shouldn’t be there (at a questionable website), stop!”

“Sgt. Mike” explained that it’s natural for young people who feel lonely to seek affirming connections with others, but doing so without caution can be like filling up one’s emptiness with a drug. It can have decidedly negative consequences.

Woodroof shared several real-life ...