Too much screen time and multitasking with other media have been linked to decreased academic performance and executive functioning. (Source: National Library of Medicine). Many "educational" technology products have not proven more effective than analog teaching methods and include addictive gamification features (Source: The Digital Delusion). Technology companies are now pushing AI use in schools, which raises even more safety, privacy, and cognitive offloading concerns. 

We are parents and community members who believe technology should have to prove its educational value before it's used in our schools. We support MMSD’s current effort to update its technology plan and urge leadership to put learning first by prioritizing human-centered instruction.

Data show that MMSD student screen time exceeds district recommendations. Kindergarteners and first graders are issued 1:1 devices, even though zero screen time is recommended. Students are rushing through schoolwork to game on their Chromebooks. They’re finding ways to access restricted sites. They’re choosing screens over socializing with friends during free time. 

We want students to learn how to use technology effectively and responsibly in technology classes. We do not believe, however, that core subjects should be taught through technology, unless assistive technology is needed to accommodate a disability. 

Now is the time to recalibrate investments and refocus instruction to ensure all MMSD students receive high-quality educations that equip them with foundational and critical thinking skills. 

Our Requests:

• Analog default: Pencil-and-paper instruction and physical books should be the primary mode of learning in classrooms. Screen time should only be authorized when it provides demonstrable educational value that cannot be replicated offline.
• Age-gated framework for technology use (with IEP and 504 Plan exceptions):
  • 4K-2: Device-free classrooms
  • 3-8: Chromebook cart or computer lab model; devices may be checked out for home use
  • 9-12: 1:1 Chromebooks available; devices may be checked out for home use
• Developmentally informed tech ed: Students should learn to use technology responsibly and effectively in a structured, supervised environment before using 1:1 devices for testing or unsupervised activities. For example:
  
  • Establish keyboarding fluency before students are tested on computers
  • Establish a foundation of media literacy and critical thinking skills before students have access to AI
• Accountability: Technology purchases and use should answer the following questions: 

  • What problem is it solving?

  • What is the cost/benefit? (monetary and experiential)

  • How will success be measured?

  • Is it working?
• Transparency: Parents should be able to easily access their child’s technology use data and district technology user agreements. Taxpayers should have access to technology spending and the efficacy data that is used to make purchasing and renewal decisions. 

We believe a learning-first approach to technology will increase student equity, academic achievement, and social-emotional health, truly making MMSD a destination school district.