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Mindful. Respectful. Responsible.
Empowering Safe, Healthy, and Responsible Digital Learners in APS
APS is committed to fostering digital citizenship and wellness through intentional use, community partnerships, and student-centered practices.
What is Digital Citizenship?
Digital Citizenship and Wellness in Arlington Public Schools is the practice of using technology safely, ethically, and responsibly, while maintaining balance, well-being, and equity in digital environments.
APS students are empowered to:
- Participate fully and thoughtfully in academic, social, and civic life online.
- Recognize their rights and responsibilities in a connected world.
- Protect their privacy and data, and respect the digital rights of others.
- Engage with empathy and integrity, fostering inclusive and respectful digital communities.
- Maintain digital wellness by developing healthy habits around screen time, social media, and online engagement.
This definition is grounded in:
APS’s Pillar of Learning Connection: Digital Wellness & Balance
Digital learning can transform education by:
- Promoting critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication—skills essential for navigating digital spaces with confidence and care.
- Shrinking equity and accessibility gaps through inclusive, personalized experiences that support all students in developing healthy digital habits.
- Cultivating life-long, culturally competent, metaliterate learners who understand how to manage their digital presence, protect their well-being, and engage responsibly online.
- Supporting educators and families through community outreach and reliable instructional systems that reinforce digital wellness both in and beyond the classroom.
Aligned Frameworks
- ISTE+ASCD’s Digital Citizenship Competencies, which emphasize empathy, media literacy, digital well-being, and ethical participation.
- Virginia’s Digital Learning Integration Standards, which promote responsible technology use, creativity, and digital citizenship across all grade levels.
Our goal is to prepare students to make safe, respectful, and informed choices online—whether they are using APS-managed devices at school or navigating digital spaces independently at home or in the community.