Article VII of the Texas Constitution states "to establish and make suitable provision for the support and maintenance of an efficient system of public free schools." As such, any law that is passed will still ensure public schools remain funded and accessible to Texas children with appropriate curriculum that is beneficial to the well-being of all students. 

The advancement of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) is a big plus; it helps greatly with blended learning, but not when it oversteps into our students' education at the cost of their overall development and well-being. Texas public schools are becoming overly digital, undermining traditional learning methods. A study by the National Education Policy Center found that students in fully online programs perform worse on average than students in traditional face-to-face programs (Source: The National Education Policy Center).

Excessive screen time is causing a severe health crisis for youth, both mentally and physically. The problem of sleep deprivation and computer/cell phone addiction among teens is underestimated! Students get fewer hours of sleep as they step into high school per night largely due to their devices trying to get homework done when they should be getting eight to nine hours. That gives them less resilience when it comes to stress, lessens concentration, and increases the risk of depression, suicidal thoughts, and anxiety. Girls are especially affected; scientific evidence proving social media exposes you at an early age to eating disorders, making you feel less good about your body. Besides, digitization reduces human interaction, a crucial ingredient for developing well-rounded individuals. It also deepens the digital divide, leaving economically disadvantaged students behind. 

Digital tech over usage at Texas Public school classrooms and long hours on the evenings, nights, and weekends for assignments at home are causing behavioral issues, a major concern for many busy working parents. Students are suffering widespread disorders and a decline in physical and intellectual capabilities due to the hours spent online. Some parents expressed unhealthy class practices (for example, Frisco ISD): teachers allowing students to watch Ticktock and Air Pods music during class time.

Research provides the paper-pencil method; writing by hand is surprisingly important for thinking and learning compared to note-taking using a phone. Reading books from an early age also enhances connectivity in the brain, reduces stress, promotes relaxation, improves sleep, and has the potential to decrease the likelihood of developing Alzheimer's later on. Traditional methods foster direct interaction, immediate feedback, retain information, and provide more group and collaborative learning opportunities.

We propose a balanced integration of digital and non-digital teaching methods in Texas public schools to enhance students' learning experience and well-being. We urge state education authorities to revisit their digital strategies, looking at age appropriateness for a nuanced and purposeful adoption of technology in all Texas public schools. Look at how we use our school days and actually impose restrictions for the younger kids and youth on the use of screen time, phone usage, computer-driven education, and homework assignments. Stand with us in advocating for a balanced education approach. Your voice is essential. 

Please sign this petition with valuable comments and pass it onto your social groups so concerned parent voices are heard. Thank you.