Change standard high school calculator to Desmos

Change standard high school calculator to Desmos

The Issue

In today's digital age, our education tools need to evolve alongside technology. Despite advancements, many high schools continue to require the outdated TI-84 calculator, a device that has been around for over two decades and costs students more than $100. This outdated technology not only places an unnecessary financial burden on families but also restricts the potential for learning using more advanced and accessible tools.

We argue that Desmos, a free, web-based platform, should replace the TI-84 as the standard calculator in high schools. Desmos offers a user-friendly interface and powerful capabilities that surpass those of traditional calculators. The platform can be accessed on any computer or tablet, making it a versatile option for all students, regardless of their financial background. Desmos also updates regularly, ensuring that students are using the most up-to-date technology available.

Furthermore, by continuing to rely on Texas Instruments' calculators, schools are supporting a monopoly that prioritizes profit over educational advancement. This monopoly stifles competition and innovation, preventing students from experiencing cutting-edge technology in mathematics education.

According to Desmos, its platform has been implemented in schools worldwide, demonstrating its effectiveness and popularity among educators and students alike. By adopting Desmos, schools could save families hundreds of dollars and allow students to learn in a modern, technologically enriched environment.

We urge school boards and educational policymakers to reconsider the current standard of the TI-84 calculator and choose Desmos as the primary tool in mathematics education. This change would democratize access to advanced mathematical tools, promote equality in education, and foster a more innovative future for students.

Please sign this petition to make mathematics education accessible, equitable, and technologically forward-thinking for all high school students.

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The Issue

In today's digital age, our education tools need to evolve alongside technology. Despite advancements, many high schools continue to require the outdated TI-84 calculator, a device that has been around for over two decades and costs students more than $100. This outdated technology not only places an unnecessary financial burden on families but also restricts the potential for learning using more advanced and accessible tools.

We argue that Desmos, a free, web-based platform, should replace the TI-84 as the standard calculator in high schools. Desmos offers a user-friendly interface and powerful capabilities that surpass those of traditional calculators. The platform can be accessed on any computer or tablet, making it a versatile option for all students, regardless of their financial background. Desmos also updates regularly, ensuring that students are using the most up-to-date technology available.

Furthermore, by continuing to rely on Texas Instruments' calculators, schools are supporting a monopoly that prioritizes profit over educational advancement. This monopoly stifles competition and innovation, preventing students from experiencing cutting-edge technology in mathematics education.

According to Desmos, its platform has been implemented in schools worldwide, demonstrating its effectiveness and popularity among educators and students alike. By adopting Desmos, schools could save families hundreds of dollars and allow students to learn in a modern, technologically enriched environment.

We urge school boards and educational policymakers to reconsider the current standard of the TI-84 calculator and choose Desmos as the primary tool in mathematics education. This change would democratize access to advanced mathematical tools, promote equality in education, and foster a more innovative future for students.

Please sign this petition to make mathematics education accessible, equitable, and technologically forward-thinking for all high school students.

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Petition created on May 7, 2026