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Sweet Home ISD

Rural Roots, Empowered Minds

Distribution of Visual Materials

Sweet Home ISD is committed to maintaining a safe and respectful learning environment for all students. As part of that commitment, we want to remind families about the serious legal and school consequences that can occur when students share inappropriate images or videos electronically.

Under Texas law (Texas Penal Code §43.261), it is illegal for minors to knowingly send, receive, or possess electronic images that depict a minor engaged in sexual conduct. This includes photos or videos shared through text messages, social media, or other electronic platforms.

Even if students believe they are simply “forwarding” or “sharing” something that was sent to them, doing so may still violate the law.

Possible consequences may include:

  • Criminal charges for sending, possessing, or forwarding explicit images of a minor.

  • Misdemeanor offenses that may result in fines, court involvement, or educational programs ordered by a judge.

  • More serious charges if the image is shared with the intent to embarrass, harass, or harm another person.

  • School disciplinary consequences, which may include suspension, placement in a disciplinary program, or other actions in accordance with the district’s Student Code of Conduct.

The Texas School Safety Center strongly encourages parents to talk with their children about responsible digital behavior and the risks associated with sharing images online. Technology can make it easy for images to spread quickly, and once shared, it may be impossible to fully remove them.

We ask families to partner with us by reminding students:

  • Do not send or request inappropriate images.

  • Do not forward or share images that may be inappropriate or harmful.

  • If a student receives such material, they should not share it and should immediately report it to a trusted adult or school staff member.

Sweet Home ISD appreciates your partnership in helping teach students safe and responsible digital behavior. Working together, we can protect our students and maintain a positive learning environment for everyone.

If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the campus office.