Jacksonville, Florida, January 7, 2026
In Jacksonville, the FBI is teaming up with Duval County Public Schools to host the ‘Be Smart Online’ event. Scheduled for January 14, the initiative aims to educate parents, students, and educators about online safety. Special agents will share insights on the risks associated with social media and offer resources for safe digital practices. This free event is open to the community and seeks to enhance awareness surrounding youth safety in the digital age.
Jacksonville, Florida: FBI and DCPS to Host “Be Smart Online” Event on January 14, 2026
Community Collaboration to Enhance Online Safety Awareness
Jacksonville, Florida – The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Duval County Public Schools (DCPS), and Duval County School Police are uniting to address essential online safety issues through the “Be Smart Online” event. Set for Wednesday, January 14, 2026, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Kernan Middle School, this initiative embraces community engagement, inviting parents, guardians, students, and educators across neighboring districts to participate in an enlightening discussion on safe online practices.
The importance of events like these cannot be understated, as they stretch beyond mere information sharing; they highlight the commitment of local organizations to prioritize the safety and well-being of youth. With collaboration at the heart of this initiative, it showcases how streamlined efforts and reduced bureaucracy can lead to effective community safety programs that resonate with the needs and concerns of today’s families.
Event Details
- Event: Be Smart Online
- Date and Time: Wednesday, January 14, 2026, 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Location: Kernan Middle School, 2271 Kernan Blvd S, Jacksonville, FL 32246
- Admission: Free and open to all, including students and educators from neighboring school districts.
Purpose of the Event
The “Be Smart Online” program is designed to equip attendees with crucial knowledge regarding the potential risks connected to social media and online behavior amongst youth. Special agents from FBI Jacksonville will share insights into the tactics employed by online predators and provide invaluable resources for recognizing and reporting questionable activities. While some content may be deemed sensitive, it is vital for those with children and teens who actively engage with technology and online platforms.
Background Context
With the increasing reliance on digital connections, children and teens inadvertently expose themselves to potential dangers online. It is imperative that guardians are aware of these risks, as their responses shape not only immediate safety but also long-term educational and professional prospects for young individuals. The partnership between the FBI and DCPS emphasizes ongoing efforts to promote safe digital habits, reflecting a unified approach towards youth safety in the evolving digital landscape.
Additional Resources
- FBI Safe Online Surfing: A program tailored for 3rd – 8th graders aimed at fostering safe online behaviors.
- FBI Child ID App: A tool that helps parents safeguard their children’s information for enhanced safety.
- National Center for Missing and Exploited Children: An organization that offers a wealth of resources and support for all ages to combat online exploitation.
Why Attend?
Participation in the “Be Smart Online” event is a proactive step for parents and educators to foster an informed community. This event is an opportunity to actively engage in discussions concerning the well-being of youth online and to network with fellow community members. By attending, families can access vital knowledge that empowers them to navigate the digital landscape safely.
Conclusion
In sum, the “Be Smart Online” event stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit of Jacksonville, illustrating how community organizations can work together effectively to enhance public safety education. Attending this event not only enriches personal knowledge but also contributes to a larger culture of awareness surrounding online safety. We encourage all community members to participate and get involved in these essential conversations to prioritize the safety and success of our youth in Jacksonville.
FAQ
What is the “Be Smart Online” event?
The “Be Smart Online” event is a program designed to help parents, guardians, and students understand the risks of using social media and the long-term consequences of unsafe online behavior. Special agents from FBI Jacksonville will share methods that predators use to target children and provide resources for reporting suspicious activity.
When and where is the event taking place?
The event will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Kernan Middle School, located at 2271 Kernan Blvd S, Jacksonville, FL 32246.
Who can attend the event?
The event is free and open to all, including parents, guardians, students, and educators from neighboring school districts.
Is there an admission fee for the event?
No, the event is free to attend.
What resources are available for online safety?
Additional resources include the FBI Safe Online Surfing program for 3rd – 8th graders, the FBI Child ID App, and support from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Be Smart Online |
| Date and Time | Wednesday, January 14, 2026, 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. |
| Location | Kernan Middle School, 2271 Kernan Blvd S, Jacksonville, FL 32246 |
| Admission | Free and open to all, including students and educators from neighboring school districts. |
| Purpose | To educate parents, guardians, and students about the risks associated with social media and the long-term consequences of unsafe online behavior. |
| Resources | FBI Safe Online Surfing program, FBI Child ID App, National Center for Missing and Exploited Children support. |
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
