Internet Filtering in the Classroom

The only ongoing "problem" I have is with Launch.yahoo. We banned MSN Messenger at our school; a few kids have been secretly attempting to use it with heavy consequences. Some have found other instant messenging/chat sites. The number of kids who see the computers as a plaything for games, music and communication with friends is overwhelming. It is an ongoing challenge to convince kids that the computer is a tool for learning and self-expression and communication. The internet filtering piece is important; it's a constant reminder to the kids that they are being watched over, but its necessity should diminish as kids have a good, educational reason to be using the computers.