Hello fellow students and concerned citizens!

I am writing this petition because I am genuinely frustrated and saddened by the recent policies adopted by Wake County Public School System. Like many of my peers, I enjoy spending my free moments catching up on trending and entertaining content on YouTube Shorts. It's not just a fun pastime; it's a way to connect with global cultures, learn new things in bite-sized formats, and have a moment of relaxation amidst our hectic school schedule.

However, the current ban on YouTube Shorts in Wake County schools has put an unnecessary constraint on our free time. This banning decision seems to overlook the educational, creative, and stress-relieving benefits that YouTube Shorts possess. While I understand the concern about distraction, this can be managed through supervised access in break times rather than an outright ban.

In addition, the replacement or added mandatory task of spending time on i-Ready has not been a welcomed change. For many, i-Ready feels more like a monotonous task rather than a learning tool—leading to a decrease in enthusiasm and increased stress levels. The program was initially intended to be an adaptive, engaging educational tool but has often left students feeling demotivated and overwhelmed.

It’s crucial for educational systems to adapt alongside technological advancements and cultural trends. Instead of banning YouTube Shorts, which can also serve as an educational tool, schools should integrate them into learning environments where appropriate. Simultaneously, a reevaluation of the i-Ready system is necessary, and potentially considering a ban if it no longer serves the educational well-being of students.

I urge Wake County Public School System and concerned stakeholders to reconsider these decisions. Let's advocate for a balanced approach that promotes freedom, creativity, and effective educational tools in schools.

Please sign this petition if you believe in fostering a more engaging and forward-thinking educational environment in Wake County. Let's bring back YouTube Shorts and reconsider the use of i-Ready in our schools!