How-To Guide: Bess Internet Filter

Q. I am frustrated because CyberStart wants us to use the Internet but the Bess filter won’t let me access the sites I need. Why is the filter necessary on all of our computers?

A. Per CyberStart Guidelines, under Program Requirements, Accessing the Internet:

a. The facility agrees that it will not disable Internet access on any CyberStart computer.

b. The facility will ensure that content filtering remains active on all computers designated for classroom use.

As part of its contractual requirements, CyberStart require that all CyberStart computers located in children’s classrooms keep Bess, the filtering software provided by CyberStart, active. The filter may not be turned off or deactivated.

Why is CyberStart so strict about the filter? CyberStart has placed personal computers in preschool classrooms and equipped them with Internet access. This provides incredible learning opportunities for children and staff alike. However, Internet access also opens the doors to Internet predators who lurk in chat rooms, send X-rated email and pop-ups, and create links to unacceptable sites. Many seemingly-innocent sites are the direct sources of pop-ups, viruses, and programs which continue to access unwelcome sites. Filtering software helps guard users from these threats.

Bess® Internet filtering software was selected to help protect CyberStart internet users from inappropriate or illegal Internet information and sites.  The classroom computers have been provided to serve children ages 3-5 and it is to protect these children that the filtering is in place. SafeKids.com at http://www.safekids.com/risks.htm has an excellent summary of the risks faced by children online as well as links to articles which help teachers and parents safeguard their children’s online experiences.

Administrative computers located in offices and which are not accessed by children are not required to use the filter. Staff who require access to filtered sites should use administrative or personal computers. Sites such as eBay and other online auctions are not accessible through Bess because CyberStart cannot control what is viewed and/or soldon eBay. Other sites, which may not appear to pose any risks to children, are filtered because they link to questionable sites.

You may request that a site be released from the filter by emailing the site address and your reasons for its release from the filter to CyberStart at: cyberstart@cyberstart.net .Your request will be reviewed and, if appropriate, the site will be released form the filter.

 

 

[Posted on August 2, 2005]