MIDDLETOWN, PA — Governor Josh Shapiro visited Middletown Area High School on Tuesday to spotlight Pennsylvania’s efforts to strengthen digital literacy and counter misinformation through the state’s Information and Media Literacy Toolkit.
Joined by Acting Secretary of Education Dr. Carrie Rowe, local lawmakers, educators, and students, Shapiro emphasized the growing importance of equipping young people with the ability to distinguish credible information from falsehoods. “Our goal is not to teach students what to think, but to give them the tools to discern fact from fiction, engage in thoughtful debate, and become informed citizens,” Shapiro said.
The toolkit, launched in September 2024 and accessed more than 1,700 times, provides evidence-based resources to help teachers, parents, and students recognize biases, navigate online spaces responsibly, and engage critically with information. Developed after a statewide survey showed 90 percent of schools wanted more comprehensive resources, the toolkit integrates media literacy into instruction across grade levels.
Rowe underscored the urgency of the initiative, saying, “In a world where misinformation spreads fast, the ability to distinguish fact from fiction is essential for education, civic life, and trust in our institutions”.
The event highlighted how Middletown schools already embed digital literacy into their curriculum, from elementary library lessons to dedicated middle school courses and high school programs emphasizing creativity, collaboration, communication, and critical thinking. Students like Sana Vereen described how digital filtering systems and classroom instruction help them apply these skills in everyday life.
The visit also drew attention to recent state investments in Middletown schools, including a 20 percent increase in state funding since Shapiro took office, school safety and facility improvement grants, and recognition for civic engagement efforts.
Local leaders praised the initiative’s broader impact. “Just like history, math, science, and the arts expand our understanding of the world, digital literacy is an extension of learning,” said Senator Patty Kim. Representative Tom Mehaffie added that in an era of AI-driven disinformation, “any steps our educators can take to help young people become savvy news consumers are important ones”.
Pennsylvania, ranked among the top five states for public education quality, is positioning the toolkit as a cornerstone in preparing students to responsibly navigate an increasingly complex media landscape.
For access to the Information and Media Literacy Toolkit, visit PDE’s toolkit page.
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