Common Sense Education's Digital Literacy Curriculum Selected as Connecticut's Statewide Model for K–12 Schools

SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 3, 2025—Common Sense Media today announced that the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) has adopted Common Sense Education's K–12 Digital Citizenship Curriculum as its official state model. This landmark decision makes Connecticut the first state to implement Common Sense's comprehensive digital literacy framework statewide, setting a new national standard for preparing students to navigate the digital world responsibly.

The initiative coincides with Connecticut's launch of an innovative artificial intelligence (AI) pilot program across seven school districts, creating a robust foundation for technology education that combines fundamental digital literacy with cutting-edge AI integration.

"Connecticut has taken an important step in recognizing that digital literacy is as fundamental as reading and writing in today's world," said James P. Steyer, founder and CEO of Common Sense Media. "By implementing our comprehensive K–12 Digital Citizenship Curriculum statewide, Connecticut demonstrates its commitment to ensuring every student, regardless of ZIP code, has the skills to succeed in our digital society, and is providing a model for other states to follow."

Common Sense Education's Digital Citizenship Curriculum, developed in collaboration with researchers and educators at Project Zero at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, features:

• Grade-differentiated lessons covering six core topics: Media Balance & Well-Being, Privacy & Security, Digital Footprint & Identity, Relationships & Communication, Cyberbullying, Digital Drama & Hate Speech, and News & Media Literacy
• Research-backed, standards-aligned materials that can be integrated across subject areas
• Specific modules addressing AI ethics and responsible use of emerging technologies
• Family engagement resources available in multiple languages
• Professional development support for educators
• Regular updates to address new technological developments and challenges

"Our Digital Citizenship Curriculum, which already reaches millions of students in thousands of schools nationwide, delivers a world-class framework for teaching students how to engage responsibly with AI tools," said Yvette Renteria, chief program officer at Common Sense Media. "Our approach ensures that students think critically about how, when, and why to use AI."

For more information about Common Sense Education, visit www.commonsense.org/education.

About Common Sense Media

Common Sense is dedicated to improving the lives of kids and families by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive. Our ratings, research, and resources reach more than 150 million users worldwide and 1.4 million educators every year. Learn more at commonsense.org.