Are they students with special needs, or not? (Most schools I know for that age range are, sorry if I offended by the question.)

yes, open it and supervise closely, giving opportunity to teach and model good use

What is the reasoning behind it?

Yes - We need to use it at school to help them learn to be good 'digizens' in out of school life - They have full access there.

oooh, I like that term 'digizens'... who coined it?

kmulford We're a Career & Technology Center (vocational school). Some students even get college credit.

GOOD!!

Teach how to use professionally!

ooo! I like these answers!

In that case, add my vehement approval... they really need those things opened up!

Isn't FB more secure than MySpace? Some sleazy stuff on MySpace. Make sure each student invites you as a friend so you can monitor content.

by all means. That is the way it should be for all students - teach them how to use the tools. Offer them social networking instruction!

you've a very forward thinking superintendent. Good for you, your students and for him/her!

kwhobbes. Thank you I am not the super. I'm the Tech. Dir., but he's my boss and it's his idea!

that you did a good thing to get him to look and he did the right thing in trusting you would make the right decision.

Will you ask your supt. to please call my supt. so my county can progress instead of stand still with technology?

We need to teach them to be responsible. Blocking access is not the answer!

completely agree with bookjewel!!

I work in an open district - ideas it to teach professional use of networking /communication tools vs social