My name is anonymous, a student in Sikeston public schools, writing out of concern for my own privacy and that of my peers. Every day, our privacy is invaded by applications like Linewize and Apple Classrooms that monitor our digital activity. I firmly believe that this monitoring violates the terms of service and is downright invasive.

These applications were deployed under the pretense of ensuring a safe and effective virtual learning environment. However, rather than achieving this ostensible goal, they've shaped a culture of surveillance, causing unease among students. Linewize, for instance, tracks online activity in real-time, allowing teachers to view web-searches in and out of school hours (source: edSurge). While I agree with the need to foster conducive learning, I believe it should not come at the expense of a student's privacy.

Balancing internet safety and privacy rights is crucial, and current measures have tipped that balance disproportionately. In fact, the National Association for Pupil Transport states that students spend an average of 6.8 hours on digital devices for school-related activities, not including time spent for homework (NAPT). Hence, there is an urgent need to recalibrate our approach to ensure both safety and respect for privacy.

I urge our school district and the education leaders in our community to reconsider the use of Linewize and Apple Classrooms. Let's explore alternate solutions that prioritize both our academic success and our right to privacy. Please join me in this cause and sign this petition. Your support matters.