Highlights and Google Empower a Million Students

Highlights for Children and Google announced Wednesday that their nationwide online safety education effort has reached a significant milestone: one million students.

Celebrating the Milestone in Ohio

Congressman Troy Balderson joined leaders at Pataskala South Fork Elementary in Pataskala, Ohio, to celebrate the achievement and observe the program’s impact firsthand. The event highlighted the importance of equipping the next generation with essential digital skills.

The 'Be Internet Awesome' Initiative

The project was launched to help children confidently navigate the digital world. Supported by a $5 million grant from Google.org, Google’s philanthropic arm, Highlights developed and distributed “Be Internet Awesome” classroom kits to U.S. second through fifth graders.

Engaging Educational Resources

These kits provide educators and families with engaging tools to foster safe, healthy, and positive online experiences. The initiative focuses on fundamental digital literacy, teaching children how to explore the internet with confidence.

National Reach and Impact

Highlights has distributed these kits – filled with fun, educational puzzles and games – to 10,000 schools across the United States. This ensures students in Ohio and nationwide are prepared to be responsible digital citizens.

Statements from Leaders

“The internet is a powerful tool for learning and connecting, but we must equip our children with the skills to navigate it safely,” said Representative Balderson in a news release. “Ohio’s collaboration with Highlights and Google to deliver ‘Be Internet Awesome’ kits to every school district is an important step forward.”

Kent Johnson, Highlights Chief Executive Officer, stated, “Our collaboration with Google demonstrates the power of combining trusted content with global reach. Together, we’re bringing engaging, research-based resources into classrooms across the country.”

Kim Roberts, Google.org Director of Strategy, added, “At Google, we believe every child should be able to learn, explore, and grow safely online—and we are committed to leading the way. By supporting experts at Highlights and focusing on fundamental skills – like creating a strong password, spotting fakes, and taking breaks – we are working to empower the next generation.”

Hands-on Learning at Pataskala South Fork Elementary

During the event, over 120 second graders participated in educational games and puzzles. These activities taught skills such as creating strong passwords, the importance of screen breaks, and the value of online kindness.

Families and teachers across Ohio can access these free internet safety resources by visiting the Be Internet Awesome website.