Empowering Students to Navigate the Digital World
“Eyes Wide Open” is an engaging school awareness program designed for students in 5th grade and above. Created by Ashley Tobias and brought to schools through a partnership between bergenPAC’s Performing Arts School and the FBI Newark Citizens Academy Alumni Association, this impactful educational drama sheds light on the realities of growing up in a digital age.
Through the parallel stories of two teens, Emma and Jax, Eyes Wide Open explores the serious risks of online predators, manipulation, and the pressures of constant digital connectivity. The program helps students recognize warning signs, understand the importance of safe online behavior, and know when—and how—to ask for help.
The experience doesn’t end with the performance. Each session concludes with thoughtfully prepared takeaway materials for teachers and parents to continue the conversation in a supportive and safe environment. These resources are designed to equip students with practical knowledge and empower them to protect themselves from online threats.
Eyes Wide Open is more than a performance—it’s a vital educational tool that fosters awareness, resilience, and informed decision-making in today’s digital world.
