The first-ever statewide initiative to survey media literacy in schools providew an action plan of recommendations to advance media literacy efforts. This initiative was done in collaboration with the Media Education Lab and the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. It draws on a year-long study that included interviews with educators, input from national experts, and survey responses from Massachusetts teachers.
The results are clear: educators see media literacy as essential, and they’re already incorporating core practices like media analysis, student media creation, and inquiry-based research, with a strong interest in expanding instruction for the youngest learners. But the report also shows what’s missing—system-wide training, clear guidance, and equitable access—especially as AI rapidly changes the media environment students navigate every day.
“This report provides a practical roadmap for Massachusetts and other states who want to prioritize comprehensive media literacy education,” said Kyra Brissette, CEO of Media Literacy Now. “As we look to 2026, we are excited to champion these policy recommendations in Massachusetts and nationwide to ensure every student learns to think critically, evaluate information, and engage safely and confidently in today’s digital world.”
Media Literacy Now. (2025). Media Literacy in Massachusetts: A Landscape Scan and Policy Recommendations,
https://medialiteracynow.org/ma_dese/
