Next time you log onto Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, send a text message or even take a “selfie” - - think twice.
There’s no such thing as permanently deleting something off the Internet, a social media platform or your mobile device. Your digital footprint - - or the history you leave behind on your electronic devices - - sticks around forever. 
That was one of the main points stressed to students at the Upper Elementary School by Michael Colangelo and Jasmine Peck of the Oneida-Herkimer-Madison BOCES Health and Safety Office.
Both spoke to third, fourth, fifth and sixth grade students on February 4 about using technology responsibly and safety in general. They particularly encouraged students to do and think about the following:
Think before you create.
-Will this humiliate or embarrass me or someone else?
-Is it possible someone else will see this?
-Is this a potential “big” mistake or life changer?
-Is this illegal?
Think before you share.
-Is it from an anonymous source?
-Check your own feelings.
-Is this something you would be proud of?
-Is it some type of joke?
Colangelo and Peck also discussed the signs and dangers of cyberbullying, and the importance of letting no incident go unreported.
“Technology can be an awesome tool, but it also has a lot of risks,” Colangelo said. “We want students to know at a young age that poor decisions using technology can not only negatively affect them now, but also down the road. Future employers, family and friends and, quite frankly, the entire world, will have access to their digital footprint.”
At the start of the school year, the Upper Elementary School introduced new, school-wide rules called “The Bulldog Four.” The rules are:
I will be responsible.
I will give my best effort.
I will be respectful & kind.
I will be safe.
The presentation by the Oneida-Herkimer-Madison BOCES Health and Safety Office compliments “The Bulldog Four.”