ALEXANDRIA, Va., (Nov. 20, 2018)—National PTA, in collaboration with Symantec, the world’s leading cyber-security company, is pleased to award 25 PTAs and schools with $1,000 grants. The funds will support a Smart Talk Conversation event in celebration of Safer Internet Day during the week of Feb. 5, 2019. A full list of the 2018 Symantec recipients are available here.

“Being a parent is a balancing act, especially when it comes to managing kids and their devices,” said Jim Accomando, president of National PTA. “Together with Symantec, we are giving parents a way to make a complex discussion easier.”

During the Safer Internet Day Smart Talk Conversation events, parents and students will use The Smart Talk—a free, online tool developed by National PTA and Symantec—to start an open, ongoing dialog about the use of the internet and devices, as well as how to make smarter, safer choices online.

The Smart Talk provides an interactive experience that guides kids and parents through a series of questions and conversations about topics such as safety and privacy, screen time, social media, apps and downloads, texting and calling, reputation and respect, and online videos and cameras. After agreeing on healthy limits together, a personalized, official family “contract” is created, which can be printed, signed and posted at home.

For parents looking to begin the conversation today, tips on device and internet accountability are available now on The Smart Talk website at TheSmartTalk.org. More ways to take charge of your digital life can be found at PTA.org/Connected.

About National PTA

National PTA® comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of family engagement in schools. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit association that prides itself on being a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who wants to be involved and make a difference for the education, health, and welfare of children and youth. For more info, visit PTA.org.