Beachwood, Solon schools warn parents on Israeli war on social media

SOLON, Ohio (WOIO) - As the War in Israel continues, schools in Northeast Ohio are worried about how accessible images and videos are to their children.

Districts like the Solo City School District and the Beachwood City School District, sent out statements to parents warning them about possible traumatic imagery online.

“Dear Solon Schools Families,

Based on alerts and information we have received from our SAY Counselors through our partner agency Bellefaire-JCB, it is believed that graphic images and videos of hostages may be broadcast on social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram and YouTube today. Please carefully monitor your children’s access to their social media to protect them from these pictures and images. These videos are anticipated to be disturbing and could cause trauma.

Many of our families are experiencing trauma and fear, and students may be struggling with understanding terrorism and the horror of the situation that has unfolded over the past few days. Our thoughts are with all of those impacted and we are here to support you. If your child needs support, please reach out to an administrator or counselor.”

“Dear Beachwood Families,

Our community partner, Bellefaire JCB, is recommending that we advise parents to disable or, at minimum, monitor and discuss with children their use of social media at this time. Reportedly, Hamas terrorists may post violent disturbing videos of the approximately 150 Israelies, Americans and others they took as captives. Children should not view those images, and there is no reliable way to avoid being exposed to them other than deleting your child’s social media accounts on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram. Disturbing videos may also be posted to YouTube– please monitor your child’s access to this platform as well.”

Susan Borison, the Chair of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s Community Relations Committee says that monitoring and keeping track of their kids’ social media is exactly what parents should be doing.

“The fear of social media are the images,” Borison said.

“I mean, the stories are tragic- they’re catastrophic. The barbarism that is being shown on social media is something that goes into our brains and into our souls and we can’t get it out.”

“They are for adults impossible to comprehend, and to overcome. And really not at all, no kids should be seeing these images.”

“If you have kids, get all the apps off of their devices for the remainder of the war. That is not something that your kid is gonna be able to process.”

If you, or your child are in need of assistance or further resources, view the listing below.

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