Federal and local government officials have announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to provide cyber safety training to students, staff, and parents within the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD). This collaboration involves the United States Attorney’s Office (USAO), LAUSD, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
LAUSD is the largest public school system in California and serves over 600,000 students. The initiative aims to combat child sexual exploitation by educating the community on staying safe online. The program will primarily target preteens and teenagers but can be adapted for younger children, staff, or parents. Dr. Alfonzo Webb from LAUSD is the representative for this MOU.
“Nothing is more important than protecting and uplifting our children,” stated United States Attorney Martin Estrada. “Our office often works with school and youth groups to discuss our work, introduce students to the justice system, and inspire kids to achieve success. We are proud to team up with LAUSD and HSI to expand on that work so that we can educate more young people about the dangers posed by the internet and social media and encourage students to pursue higher education – after all, knowledge is power.”
Eddy Wang, HSI Los Angeles Special Agent in Charge, emphasized HSI's role: “HSI has been at the forefront of investigating online crimes against children. This partnership with LAUSD and DOJ is taking a proactive approach to educating students and trusted adults about the dangers our children face online.”
Alfonzo Webb from LAUSD highlighted the importance of this collaboration: “This strategic partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations developed out of the need to ensure that our students, staff, and parents are educated on the latest and most effective online safety practices. By working together, we will provide age-appropriate presentations, resources, and guidance to help foster safer online environments for students.”
LAUSD Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho added: "Our students need to be aware of online dangers in order to be protected and empowered to make informed decisions and maintain their safety while navigating the digital world."
HSI recently revamped Project iGuardian as part of Know2Protect—a national campaign by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security—aimed at raising awareness about online child sexual exploitation threats.
The USAO in Los Angeles actively participates in Project Safe Childhood (PSC), an initiative launched by the Department of Justice in May 2006 aimed at combating child sexual exploitation through prosecutions.