Back to School

Back to School – And Back to Possibility

The new school year is here — fresh notebooks, sharpened pencils, and that mix of excitement and jitters in the air. Every child deserves a fair shot at a bright future. But for 24 million kids in the U.S. who are already behind grade level, that future is at risk.

Cuts to programs like SNAP, Medicaid, Head Start, and Title I funding mean the supports many children rely on are disappearing — especially in low-income communities. This isn’t just a setback; it’s a crisis.

But here’s the good news: there is a way forward. Right now, we have the tools to help close learning gaps — and many of them are in the digital space. High-quality games, apps, e-books, and podcasts can support, enrich, and accelerate learning in ways that are engaging, accessible, and effective.

That’s why Games & Learning is proud to introduce Locket — a first-of-its-kind platform where families can easily discover and subscribe to web-based apps, games, and tools that help kids learn and grow.

We’ve launched with 10 amazing learning products, and our goal is to grow to 100 by next year. Even better? We’re working on a subscription model that will eventually allow families who can afford to pay to help subsidize free or discounted access for children in underserved communities.

We want to hear from you! Help us shape Locket from the ground up. Visit LocketPlay.com. Check it out, and then share your feedback.

Together, we can make sure every child has the chance to step into this school year — and every one after — with confidence, curiosity, and joy.