CIRA and MediaSmarts Launched Cyber Safety Lesson Plan
The new classroom resource helps Canadian students in grades 7 to 9 navigate digital security risks.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Cybersecurity
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CIRA and MediaSmarts have introduced a new cyber safety lesson plan designed for students in grades 7 to 9. The resource integrates the CIRA Canadian Shield app to help educators teach digital security skills across Canada.
Why it matters
The program provides a structured, practical approach for teachers to address digital literacy in the classroom. It aims to empower students to manage security risks using a strengths-first and autonomy-supportive educational model.
The lesson plan integrates the CIRA Canadian Shield app to provide technical functionality within the classroom. The resource is available in both English and French and aligns with various provincial and territorial curricula.
The players
CIRA
The Canadian Internet Registration Authority manages the .ca domain and provides cybersecurity tools for Canadians.
MediaSmarts
This Canadian charitable organization has focused on digital and media literacy for 30 years.
The details
Through team-based activities and guided discussions, students learn to identify online security threats and apply appropriate tools. The initiative emphasizes autonomy, encouraging youth to take charge of their digital safety and privacy.
Timeline
October 14, 2026: CIRA and MediaSmarts launched the cyber safety resource at RALLY 2026.
The Tech Race
This collaboration builds upon MediaSmarts' 30-year track record in digital literacy to address the evolving security landscape. By equipping students with specific digital tools, the resource marks a move toward integrating specialized cybersecurity software directly into standard school curriculums.
Canadian educators can now utilize these materials to incorporate practical security training into their standard lesson plans. Students benefit by learning how to use the CIRA Canadian Shield app to manage their own digital security and privacy.
The takeaway
Empowering students with digital tools early can improve their ability to manage online threats independently. Educators are encouraged to use these structured resources to foster a proactive and secure digital environment for their students.
Further reading
For more information on digital security resources, see our Canada Cybersecurity section.
More information
To review the full program details, please access shields up for cyber safety.
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Do you trust that school-based digital safety programs effectively keep students safer online?
