Great Valley School District will host a child safety seminar for parents Monday night at Sugartown Elementary School.

The seminar begins at 7 p.m. in the school cafeteria. It is being presented by the Prevention/Education Department of the Crime Victims’ Center of Chester County. According to the district's description:

A trained PA Sexual Assault Counselor will conduct this program.

This program incorporates current statistics, best practices for child safety and discussion of the kinds of “lures” or tempting tricks someone may use to hurt a child. A list of suggested activities for parents is provided. Internet safety topics and popular Internet applications such as Facebook and Twitter are also included. While parents of all Great Valley students are welcome to attend, the content of this program is designed to specifically address practices and strategies best suited for elementary-aged children. The 45-minute presentation will be followed by a question and answer period.

This program is NOT appropriate for children. For more information, please contact Heidi Capetola at (610) 889-2125, ext. 2128,
or visit www.cvcofcc.org

The seminar was spurred at least in part by the December 2011 criminal charges against school employee Matthew Lewis. The elementary school technology specialist is accused of indecent assault on campers at a Scouts camp in 2006 and 2007. He waived a preliminary hearing; formal arraignment is scheduled for March 22. The district has made some policy adjustments in the wake of the charges.