2026 ON THE TOPIC

Digital Responsibility: Click With Care

HITN’s On the Topic proudly presents the 2026 Five Borough Essay Competition, organized in partnership with four New York State Senators, one New York City Councilwoman, participating schools across New York City, and local senior centers whose older adult members served as this year’s judging panels. This year, students from across the five boroughs had the opportunity to share their creativity and perspectives through the theme of digital responsibility and online safety.

Through a one-page opinion essay, students explored the importance of making thoughtful choices online and expressed their ideas on how young people can navigate the digital world responsibly. The program celebrates youth expression, civic engagement, and the value of bringing generations together through education and community participation.

HITN would also like to recognize the tremendous support and collaboration of the participating school communities across all five boroughs, whose administrators, teachers, and staff played an essential role in making this year’s initiative possible.

With the support of participating schools, senior centers, and elected officials, On the Topic continues to create a space where students feel heard, encouraged, and inspired to think critically about the world around them.