Digital Literacy Curriculum for High School
Preparing students for college, careers, and life in the digital age through advanced skills, critical thinking, and real-world application
Curriculum Overview
BAM Digital Media’s high school curriculum prepares students for post-graduation success by developing advanced digital literacy, professional skills, and entrepreneurial thinking. Through industry-relevant lessons and hands-on projects, students build portfolios, protect their digital reputation, and gain the technical and ethical foundation needed to thrive in college and the workforce.
Course Offerings
Digital Reputation & Professional Presence
2 Sessions (120-180 min)Students learn how to build and protect their online reputation for college applications and career opportunities. We cover social media audits, LinkedIn optimization, portfolio building, and managing your digital footprint strategically. Students also learn how to use social proof and personal branding to stand out professionally.
Learning Objectives
- Conduct comprehensive social media audits and implement privacy strategies
- Build professional LinkedIn profiles optimized for college admissions and recruiters
- Create digital portfolios showcasing skills, projects, and accomplishments
- Understand how admissions officers and employers research candidates online
Success Metrics
- 90% of students establish professional digital presence aligned with career goals
- Students identify and address potential reputation risks in their online profiles
- Increased confidence in presenting professional digital identity to colleges and employers
AI Ethics & Advanced Applications
2 Sessions (120-180 min)Deep dive into AI’s impact on education, work, and society. Students explore advanced AI tools for research, productivity, and creativity while understanding ethical boundaries, academic integrity, and bias in AI systems. We examine AI’s role in college admissions, job applications, and future careers while developing critical evaluation skills.
Learning Objectives
- Leverage AI tools ethically for research, writing enhancement, and problem-solving
- Identify and mitigate bias in AI-generated content and algorithms
- Navigate academic integrity policies regarding AI use in coursework
- Prepare for AI-impacted careers and understand emerging job market trends
Success Metrics
- Students demonstrate sophisticated understanding of AI capabilities and limitations
- Zero academic integrity violations related to AI misuse
- 95% of students can articulate ethical frameworks for AI decision-making
Cybersecurity & Privacy Mastery
2 Sessions (120-180 min)Advanced cybersecurity training covering password management systems, encryption, VPNs, secure communication, and protecting financial information. Students learn about data brokers, digital surveillance, identity theft prevention, and how to secure devices for college and independent living. We explore real-world case studies and incident response strategies.
Learning Objectives
- Implement enterprise-level security practices for personal accounts and devices
- Use password managers, authenticators, and encryption tools effectively
- Understand surveillance capitalism, data collection, and privacy laws
- Recognize and respond to advanced phishing, social engineering, and fraud attempts
Success Metrics
- 100% of students implement password managers and multi-factor authentication
- Students secure personal and financial information using industry best practices
- Zero successful phishing or social engineering attacks among participants
Digital Leadership & Online Influence
2 Sessions (120-180 min)Students develop leadership skills for digital spaces including moderating communities, addressing misinformation, facilitating difficult conversations, and building inclusive online environments. We explore algorithmic amplification, cancel culture, online activism, and how to use digital platforms to create positive change while managing controversy responsibly.
Learning Objectives
- Lead and moderate online communities with empathy and effectiveness
- Identify and combat misinformation using fact-checking methodologies
- Navigate controversial topics and manage digital conflict constructively
- Understand the psychology of online influence and algorithmic amplification
Success Metrics
- Students demonstrate ability to de-escalate conflicts in digital spaces
- Improved critical thinking when evaluating information sources
- 80% of students report increased confidence in digital leadership roles
Digital Entrepreneurship & Monetization
2 Sessions (120-180 min)Real-world business skills for the creator economy. Students learn monetization strategies, digital marketing, brand partnerships, e-commerce, freelancing, and building sustainable online income streams. We cover business formation, taxes for digital entrepreneurs, contracts, and scaling strategies while emphasizing ethical business practices and long-term thinking.
Learning Objectives
- Develop viable business models for digital products and services
- Understand monetization platforms, payment processing, and revenue streams
- Learn legal and tax requirements for young entrepreneurs
- Create marketing strategies using organic and paid digital channels
Success Metrics
- Students launch at least one digital product, service, or business concept
- Understanding of business fundamentals including revenue, expenses, and profit
- 70% of students report entrepreneurial projects beyond the classroom
Content Creation & Digital Storytelling
2 Sessions (120-180 min)Professional-level content creation covering video production, podcasting, writing, photography, and graphic design. Students build portfolios demonstrating technical skills and creative vision while understanding copyright, fair use, licensing, and intellectual property. We explore platform algorithms, audience growth strategies, and how to create content that achieves specific goals.
Learning Objectives
- Produce professional-quality content across multiple media formats
- Understand content strategy, distribution, and audience engagement
- Navigate copyright law, fair use, and intellectual property rights
- Build content portfolios suitable for college applications or professional use
Success Metrics
- Students create portfolio-ready content pieces demonstrating technical proficiency
- Understanding of platform-specific best practices and algorithm optimization
- 85% of students produce content that achieves measurable engagement goals
Financial Fraud & Digital Scams
2 Sessions (120-180 min)Advanced fraud prevention training covering investment scams, romance scams, job scams, scholarship fraud, and cryptocurrency schemes targeting young adults. Students learn to recognize sophisticated manipulation tactics, protect their finances during college transitions, and understand the legal and financial consequences of fraud. We examine case studies and develop critical evaluation frameworks.
Learning Objectives
- Identify sophisticated scam tactics targeting college students and young professionals
- Protect financial accounts, student loans, and scholarship information
- Understand cryptocurrency, investment fraud, and pyramid schemes
- Recognize romance scams, job scams, and social engineering on dating and job platforms
Success Metrics
- Zero financial losses from scams among participating students
- Students report and prevent scam attempts targeting themselves and peers
- 95% of students can analyze and deconstruct scam tactics in real-world scenarios
Career Pathways in the Digital Economy
2 Sessions (120-180 min)Comprehensive career exploration covering tech careers, remote work opportunities, freelancing, and emerging fields shaped by AI and automation. Students learn about alternative education paths including certifications, bootcamps, and apprenticeships. We cover resume building, portfolio development, networking strategies, and how to position themselves for internships and entry-level opportunities in competitive markets.
Learning Objectives
- Explore diverse career paths in technology, digital media, and emerging fields
- Understand alternative credentialing beyond traditional college degrees
- Develop job search strategies including networking, applications, and interviews
- Create career development roadmaps aligned with personal interests and market demand
Success Metrics
- Students identify specific career paths and create actionable development plans
- Completed professional materials including resumes, portfolios, or LinkedIn profiles
- 80% of students pursue internships, certifications, or relevant skill development
Implementation Models
Full Program (16 weeks)
Deliver all 8 courses sequentially with 2 sessions per course. Ideal for comprehensive digital literacy development throughout a semester, allowing students to build projects, complete assignments, and develop mastery.
Condensed Program (8 weeks)
Deliver all 8 courses with 1 session per course, focusing on core concepts and foundational knowledge. Perfect for shorter academic terms, advisory periods, or intensive workshops.
Custom Module Selection
Select specific courses based on your school’s priorities and student needs. Mix and match modules to create a tailored program addressing college prep, career readiness, or specific skill gaps.
Program Support
What’s Included
- Complete lesson plans and instructor guides
- Student project templates and rubrics
- Digital resources and professional tools
- Portfolio assessment frameworks
- College and career readiness resources
- Certificate of completion for students
- Letter of recommendation support materials
Instructor Training
Professional development workshops available for educators to ensure confident, effective delivery of advanced curriculum. Training covers teaching strategies for mature topics, facilitating career discussions, managing sensitive digital topics, and adapting content for diverse learner needs and post-graduation pathways.
About the Founder
Schnelle Acevedo, MPA
As the founder of BAM Digital Media, I have spent 14 years building digital strategies for major brands including Disney, Netflix, Amazon, and P&G before founding my MWBE-certified business. I bring insider knowledge of how platforms manipulate attention and algorithms shape behavior—knowledge I now use to empower students to navigate the digital world with agency, critical thinking, and professional readiness for college and career success.
Why Choose BAM Digital Media?
Industry Expertise
Curriculum developed by a professional with 14 years of experience in digital marketing for major entertainment and consumer brands, providing students with insider perspectives.
Urban-Focused
Content specifically designed to resonate with and empower urban youth communities, addressing real challenges and opportunities relevant to their experiences.
College & Career Ready
Students gain immediately applicable skills for college applications, internships, and entry-level employment in competitive digital fields.
Real-World Application
Projects and assignments mirror professional expectations, building portfolios and experience that demonstrate competency to colleges and employers.
Future-Proof Skills
Prepares students for emerging opportunities in AI, automation, remote work, and the creator economy—fields that will define their professional lives.
Flexible Delivery
Adaptable for in-person, virtual, or hybrid learning environments, with options for integration into existing courses or standalone programming.
Get Started
Ready to prepare your students for success in college, careers, and life in the digital age? Contact us to discuss your needs, explore scheduling options, and receive a customized proposal for your high school.