Students learn to think critically about digital messages and behave responsibly online through media literacy and digital citizenship education. Washington requires that these skills be taught across all subjects in classrooms.
Statewide Learning Standards
Media literacy teaches students to analyze and evaluate the messages they see and create every day. Students learn to identify bias, check sources, and understand how media shapes opinions and actions. Digital citizenship shows students how to use technology safely and responsibly. These skills protect students online while teaching them to treat others with kindness and respect in digital spaces.
Washington’s learning standards integrate both areas throughout the curriculum. Teachers weave media literacy and digital citizenship into math, science, social studies, and language arts lessons. Students practice these essential skills across subjects rather than learning them in isolation.
Students who develop these standards become thoughtful consumers and creators of digital content. They protect themselves from online dangers while contributing positively to digital communities.
District Services
Professional Learning for Educators
We partner with state organizations to create workshops, courses, and hybrid learning experiences that empower educators to teach students how to stay safe online and critically evaluate digital content.
Media Literacy Integration
Washington requires media literacy standards to be embedded across subject areas. Our programs help educators incorporate these standards into everyday instruction.
Digital Safety & EdTech Support
Through our EdTech Network, we provide training on digital tools and safe online practices. These efforts help students and staff develop protective online behaviors while ensuring compliance with state requirements.
Upcoming Statewide Classes
Click on a listing below to learn more and register:
Media Literacy and Digital Citizenship Connections
Washington OER Commons Hub
Provides free, open education resources such as the Educational Technology Collection and Media Literacy & Digital Citizenship Collection
Washington Librarian Association
Consider connecting with the Washington Librarian Association
Common Sense Digital Citizenship curriculum
A nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of all kids and families by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive in the 21st century.
Have additional questions?
Reach out to your regional Education Technology contact below or click on the Request Information button to submit a form.
ESD 101
Debbie Stewart
ESD 105
Mike Batali
ESD 112
Kristina Wambold
Katherine Livick
ESD 113
Shannon L. Thissen, PhD
ESD 114
Kim Weaver
ESD 121
Trinh Pham
ESD 123
Molly Brinkley
ESD 171
Stefan Troutman
ESD 189
Vanessa Allen
AESD
Travis Rush
Education Technology Lead