Liberty Elementary was recently named a Common Sense School, representing the school's commitment to building a culture of digital citizenship across the entire school community.

"We're honored to be recognized as a Common Sense School," said Teresa Smock-Potter, Liberty School Principal. "By focusing on digital citizenship right from the start, we can help our students build lifelong habits essential for future success in a tech-driven world."

This badge, given out by Common Sense Education, part of a national nonprofit dedicated to helping kids and families thrive in today’s media and technology landscape, recognizes schools that have been active in teaching digital citizenship to young people while engaging families and staff in the important discussion.

Following Common Sense Education’s research-based curriculum, Liberty’s K-2 students complete Digital Citizenship in STEAM class, learning about topics ranging from digital footprints to media balance to managing online relationships. STEAM teachers Jodi Johnson and Nicole Fagerstrom also routinely share tips about establishing healthy digital habits with families, engaging parents in the conversation and encouraging at-home learning extensions.

Evolving technologies create new opportunities while also posing new risks. These dedicated digital citizenship education efforts help students learn how to use technology responsibly while navigating the unique perils and challenges that come with it. 

"We applaud the faculty and staff of Liberty Elementary for embracing digital citizenship as an important part of their students' education," said Merve Lapus, vice president of education outreach and national partnerships at Common Sense Education. “Liberty Elementary deserves high praise for giving its students the foundational skills they need to compete and succeed in the 21st-century workplace and participate ethically in society at large." 

Learn about the Common Sense School criteria