PWCS Removes Internet Filter for Gay Information on School Computers

• The information below comes from a Prince William County Schools press release. 

After thoroughly reviewing the use of its Internet filtering software, the Prince William County Public School Division has removed the category which filters content solely related to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) information. The review process determined that this filter can be removed without compromising the mandatory state and federal legal obligations to block objectionable content because this category is information-based.

“Internet filtering is difficult, sometimes imprecise, and constantly evolving. It is nearly impossible to find the perfect balance between the protection of students, freedom of speech, and equal access, said Keith Imon, associate superintendent for Communications and Technology Services. “However, the decision to discontinue the use of the LGBT filter is within this balance,” he added.

Students are still protected from offensive content because such content is cross-referenced and, if applicable, flagged in other categories being utilized as part of the automatic filtering process. As in the past, PWCS can and does locally block objectionable Web sites above and beyond what is blocked by this automated process. 

While PWCS does not control the scope or “reach” of any particular filtered category, the School Division is working with its Internet filtering vendor, Blue Coat, to further streamline the LGBT category by bringing to their attention sites found through the manual screening process that may need to be filtered through other categories. Blue Coat has been very responsive to this input. 

The safety and well-being of students and staff is the School Division’s highest priority.