To the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Board of Education and Superintendent Dr. Crystal Hill:

We, the undersigned parents, caregivers, educators, and community partners, are calling for a more balanced and intentional approach to the use of educational technology (EdTech) in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.

While technology can support learning when used appropriately, its current level of use in classrooms raises serious concerns about student well-being, privacy, and academic outcomes.

 
Our Concerns

1. Student Privacy and Data Security

School-issued devices and digital platforms collect large amounts of student data, including personal and behavioral information. Many EdTech tools involve third-party data sharing, creating risks of misuse, exposure, and vulnerability to cyberattacks.

2. Excessive Screen Time and Skill Displacement

Children already spend significant time on screens outside of school. Increased screen use during the school day further reduces time spent on critical developmental activities such as face-to-face interaction, hands-on learning, and physical movement.

3. Limited Evidence of Academic Benefit

Research has found limited consistent evidence that EdTech improves learning outcomes. In practice, internet-connected devices can contribute to off-task behavior and reduced instructional effectiveness.

4. Impact on Teaching and Classroom Relationships

Heavy reliance on technology can shift classrooms away from direct instruction and meaningful teacher-student engagement, while adding new burdens on educators.

 
Our Request
We respectfully urge Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools to:

-Establish clear, research-based limits on non-essential screen use during the school day

-Prioritize student data privacy and transparency in all EdTech platforms and contracts
-Provide families with clear information and meaningful consent regarding technology use
-Invest in people-centered solutions—such as smaller class sizes and instructional support
-Create clear, accessible opt-out pathways for families who wish to limit or refuse EdTech use
 
Three Pathways to Opting Out

We recognize that “opting out” can take different forms, and families should have flexible, clearly defined options without fear of penalty or exclusion:

Option 1: Opt Out of Standardized Testing on Devices

For some families, reducing required device use for testing is an important first step, particularly for younger students.

Option 2: Opt Out of School-Issued 1:1 Devices

Students may decline individual laptops or tablets while still accessing necessary materials through alternative methods at school or home.

Option 3: Opt Out of All EdTech Products

Families may choose a fully non-digital approach to learning during the school day, without reliance on EdTech platforms or tools.

We ask that CMS ensure these options are clearly communicated, reasonably accommodated, and free from punitive consequences for students or families.

 
Our Goal

We are not calling for the elimination of technology in education. We are advocating for a balanced, intentional, and transparent approach—one that:

-Centers child development and well-being

-Protects student privacy
-Strengthens teacher-student relationships
-Respects the rights of families to choose reduced or no EdTech use

We believe collaboration between families, educators, and administrators can lead to thoughtful, effective solutions that better serve all students.