LAUSD prepares to implement strict limits on students’ screen time after years of encouraging classroom use

LAUSD prepares to implement strict limits on students’ screen time after years of encouraging classroom use The district will also block student access to streaming platforms, social media, and YouTube unless access is explicitly approved by a teacher - Bookmark - CommentsGo to comments As Los Angeles Unified School District students return to classrooms on Wednesday for the start of the new school year, new restrictions on the use of digital devices during the school day will take effect. Under a policy adopted by the Board of Education in June, electronic device usage will be largely eliminated for students in early education, transitional kindergarten, kindergarten, and first grade. The restrictions form part of a broader district policy aimed at reducing student screen time across all grade levels. "During COVID, student devices became a necessary lifeline, and seemingly overnight, screen time limits were shelved to ensure every child had access to the technology they needed to continue learning and stay connected with their teachers and peers," board member Nick Melvoin said in June. "Our charge now is to recalibrate, evaluate the role of educational technology in the classroom, and balance access to that technology with the kinds of instruction and interaction we know help students thrive." Exceptions will be made for district- and state-mandated assessments, students enrolled in the LAUSD Virtual Academy, and pupils with disabilities who require technology under an Individualized Education Program or 504 Plan. The district will also block student access to streaming platforms, social media, and YouTube unless access is explicitly approved by a teacher. Students will no longer automatically receive devices to take home, though families will remain able to request them. The policy also encourages teachers to assign homework involving reading, writing, problem-solving, hands-on activities, and other work completed without a digital device. The changes follow earlier district restrictions on student cellphone and social media use during school hours. According to the district, the nation's second-largest, the move positions it as "a national leader in setting thoughtful, research-based limits on student screen use and classroom technology tools." The district said the policy was developed following research and outreach to parents, teachers, and community members. Join our commenting forum Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies Comments