Stop schools from using GoGuardian

Stop schools from using GoGuardian

Recent signers:
Bryson Horgan and 15 others have signed recently.

The Issue

In the digital age, privacy has become a fundamental right that should be upheld across all areas of life—including education. However, the implementation of GoGuardian software in schools is jeopardizing this right for students everywhere, leading to a host of concerns that deserve immediate attention.

GoGuardian is a software program that monitors students' online activities under the premise of creating a safer digital environment. While student safety is paramount, the invasive nature of this software raises significant privacy issues. It tracks students' searches, browsing history, online communications, and more, often without their full awareness or consent or that of their parents.

According to the Electronic Frontier Foundation, monitoring software in schools can be overly intrusive and may lead to unintended negative consequences, such as limiting students' ability to learn freely and eroding trust between students and educators. The American Civil Liberties Union has also raised concerns about student privacy rights, indicating that such pervasive surveillance may violate legal standards for privacy and curtail freedom of expression.

Moreover, evidence shows that increased surveillance does not necessarily equate to increased safety. A 2020 study published in the Harvard Business Review suggested that surveillance can cause decreased productivity due to the psychological pressure it imposes. In educational settings, this could translate to increased anxiety and reduced academic performance.

There are alternative methods available to ensure student safety online without resorting to invasive surveillance. Implementing comprehensive digital literacy programs, fostering open communication about online risks and responsible behavior, and involving both educators and parents in students' digital experiences can create a safer and more supportive learning environment.

Thus, we call on school districts to reconsider and halt the use of GoGuardian software. We urge educational institutions to prioritize privacy, respect student rights, and adopt alternative measures that protect students both online and offline while fostering a healthy and trusting educational atmosphere.

Sign this petition to stand against unwarranted surveillance in schools and advocate for the privacy rights of students across the nation.

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Recent signers:
Bryson Horgan and 15 others have signed recently.

The Issue

In the digital age, privacy has become a fundamental right that should be upheld across all areas of life—including education. However, the implementation of GoGuardian software in schools is jeopardizing this right for students everywhere, leading to a host of concerns that deserve immediate attention.

GoGuardian is a software program that monitors students' online activities under the premise of creating a safer digital environment. While student safety is paramount, the invasive nature of this software raises significant privacy issues. It tracks students' searches, browsing history, online communications, and more, often without their full awareness or consent or that of their parents.

According to the Electronic Frontier Foundation, monitoring software in schools can be overly intrusive and may lead to unintended negative consequences, such as limiting students' ability to learn freely and eroding trust between students and educators. The American Civil Liberties Union has also raised concerns about student privacy rights, indicating that such pervasive surveillance may violate legal standards for privacy and curtail freedom of expression.

Moreover, evidence shows that increased surveillance does not necessarily equate to increased safety. A 2020 study published in the Harvard Business Review suggested that surveillance can cause decreased productivity due to the psychological pressure it imposes. In educational settings, this could translate to increased anxiety and reduced academic performance.

There are alternative methods available to ensure student safety online without resorting to invasive surveillance. Implementing comprehensive digital literacy programs, fostering open communication about online risks and responsible behavior, and involving both educators and parents in students' digital experiences can create a safer and more supportive learning environment.

Thus, we call on school districts to reconsider and halt the use of GoGuardian software. We urge educational institutions to prioritize privacy, respect student rights, and adopt alternative measures that protect students both online and offline while fostering a healthy and trusting educational atmosphere.

Sign this petition to stand against unwarranted surveillance in schools and advocate for the privacy rights of students across the nation.

The Decision Makers

Electronic Frontier Foundation
Electronic Frontier Foundation
National Association of School Boards
National Association of School Boards

Supporter Voices

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Petition created on May 22, 2026