Student survey data about digital safety in the Kearney School District community is raising alarms about the negative impact of devices like cell phones.

This winter, the Kearney School District invited Stop Trafficking Project Founder Russ Tuttle to share presentations about digital safety with employees, students, parents/guardians and community members. After his presentations at Kearney Middle School, Kearney Junior High and Kearney High School, students were asked to take a voluntary, anonymous survey.

Mr. Tuttle’s team compiled the survey results and recently shared a report with district administrators. The student survey results reinforce Mr. Tuttle’s core message that virtually every child in every community is vulnerable to the dangers posed by digital devices, particularly cell phones, according to district Assistant Superintendent Jennifer Kopp. Mrs. Kopp was responsible for bringing Tuttle to the district.

“Their report is concerning, and we feel it is important for the community to see what our students are telling us about their online experiences,” Kopp said. “Together, we can empower our students to make responsible choices online and maximize their learning potential.”

6th Grade

Out of 265 students surveyed, 85 students reported that they had viewed pornography; 35 students have received nude photos or videos (11 reported it to an adult); and 37 students reported that they had met up with a stranger.

7th Grade

Out of 241 students surveyed, 110 students reported that they had viewed pornography; 65 students had received nude photos or videos (10 reported it to an adult); and 36 students reported that they had met up with a stranger.

8th/9th Grades

Out of 450 students surveyed, 178 students reported that they had viewed pornography; 258 students had received nude photos or videos (18 reported it to an adult); and 70 students reported that they had met up with a stranger.

10th – 12th Grades

Out of 513 students surveyed, 332 students reported that they had viewed pornography; 223 students had received nude photos or videos (24 reported it to an adult); and 87 students reported that they had met up with a stranger.

“Even if you factor in a margin of error, these results are very concerning,” Kopp said. “We know that a significant portion of students are spending more time than recommended on digital devices, so it is imperative that we are diligent in helping students navigate the digital landscape in a safe manner.”

KPGZ News - Ray Weikal with the Kearney School District contributed to this story