Media Literacy

Students are surrounded by information every day, from websites, videos, social media, advertising, artificial intelligence, and traditional news sources. Learning how to ask questions, evaluate information, and recognize different perspectives is an essential skill for success in school and everyday life.

In our classrooms, students build the critical thinking skills they need to evaluate information, recognize credible sources, create responsibly, and make informed decisions in an increasingly digital world.

Students develop the skills to:

• Ask thoughtful questions about the information they see.
• Evaluate whether information is accurate, credible, and trustworthy.
• Recognize bias, perspective, and persuasive techniques.
• Verify information using multiple sources.
• Become responsible creators and sharers of digital content.
• Make informed decisions based on reliable information.

These skills grow over time and help prepare students for school, careers, civic engagement, and everyday life.

What Students Learn

Digital citizenship skills are introduced early and build over time through age-appropriate learning experiences.

Elementary School

Students begin learning how to:

• Use devices safely and responsibly.

• Protect personal information.
• Treat others with kindness and respect online.
• Ask trusted adults for help.
• Balance technology with other activities.

 

Middle School

Students continue building skills by learning about:

• Digital identity and online reputation.
• Responsible communication.
• Privacy and security.
• Healthy technology habits.
• Evaluating online interactions.

 

High School

Students prepare for college, careers, and life by exploring:

• Ethical technology use.

• Digital footprint and reputation.
• Responsible participation in online communities.
• Privacy, security, and digital rights.
• Leadership and responsible decision-making in digital spaces.

What This Looks Like in the Classroom

Digital citizenship isn't taught during one lesson each year. It is integrated throughout students' learning experiences.

Students may:

• Practice respectful online communication.
• Discuss real-world digital scenarios.
• Learn how to recognize online risks.
• Reflect on digital footprints and online choices.
• Collaborate responsibly using digital tools.
• Explore how technology can be used to positively impact their communities.

How Families Can Help

Families play an important role in reinforcing digital citizenship at home.

You can support your child by:

• Talking regularly about online experiences.
• Encouraging kindness and respect both online and offline.
• Helping children think through challenging situations.
• Modeling positive technology habits.
• Keeping communication open as your child grows.