Our asks
Reform proposals
Eleven specific changes we're asking the Shaker Heights schools to consider — a starting point for a constructive conversation about how technology shapes our children's school days.
Eliminate all device use for Pre-K – 2.
Eliminate 1:1 device use for grades 3 – 8, limited device use with computer cart or lab model as is deemed curriculum appropriate.
Block student access to YouTube, as well as all gaming, video-streaming and social media on student devices.
Require all apps used for instruction or on school issued devices to be ad-free.
Disable student access to any generative AI tools, apps, websites, and software on all school-issued devices until this technology has been proven safe, legal, and effective, and until age-appropriate guidelines are established.
Prohibit all student device use and group device use (such as smartboards) during passing periods, lunch, and recess.
Require explicit parental consent for each app that collects data, per FTC guidelines on COPPA.
Transparency in technology use in schools both on devices and in teacher led instruction. Provide clear reports to parents, teachers, and administrators with the amount of time students spend on screens.
Create clear pathways for parents and students who wish to opt out of device-based instruction, without penalty or reprisal, providing low-tech alternatives. Require all EdTech products to meet independent standards for efficacy, and to prove that any benefits outweigh potential risks.
Prohibit screen time from being used as a reward, incentive, or behavioral reinforcement for students.
Create clear screen time usage guidelines defined by grade level as well as ways to monitor that those guidelines are being followed. Screen time guidelines should be updated annually and account for both screentime for in-class work as well as screentime for homework.