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Schools Face Backlash Over Ed-Tech Use Amid Concerns of Overreliance

Schools Face Backlash Over Ed-Tech Use Amid Concerns of Overreliance

Schools across the United States are experiencing a backlash against the extensive use of educational technology. This pushback is driven by concerns from educators, parents, and students about the negative impacts of technology on learning and mental health. The expansion of 1-to-1 computing programs, accelerated by the pandemic and federal relief funding, has led to widespread device use in classrooms. Critics argue that this reliance on technology stifles creativity, reduces deep learning, and harms students' mental health. Prominent figures like Senator Ted Cruz and Oprah Winfrey have voiced concerns, highlighting the issue's prominence beyond educational circles. Despite the backlash, many schools continue to invest in educational technology, with some educators advocating for its potential benefits when used purposefully.
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Educators Weigh in on the Impact of Technology in Schools

Educators Weigh in on the Impact of Technology in Schools

A recent survey by the EdWeek Research Center explored educators' perspectives on the role of technology in learning. The survey revealed that 29% of educators believe technology enhances learning, citing benefits such as immediate feedback, interactive learning experiences, and improved student engagement. However, 36% expressed concerns that technology may hinder learning by causing distractions and facilitating cheating. The survey highlighted diverse opinions, with some educators emphasizing the importance of strategic and intentional use of technology to support differentiated instruction and prepare students for a tech-driven future.
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Educators Express Concerns Over Technology's Impact on Student Learning

Educators Express Concerns Over Technology's Impact on Student Learning

A recent survey by the EdWeek Research Center reveals that educators are divided on the impact of technology in schools. While some see benefits in access to current information and data-driven instruction, others highlight significant downsides. Critics argue that technology overuse leads to decreased concentration, stifled creativity, and mental health issues among students. The survey found that 36% of educators believe technology decreases learning, citing distractions and a lack of deep-thinking skills as major concerns. The responses reflect a growing skepticism about the role of technology in education, with calls for a return to more traditional, developmentally appropriate learning methods.
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Educators Debate the Impact of Technology on Student Learning

Educators Debate the Impact of Technology on Student Learning

A recent survey conducted by the EdWeek Research Center has revealed a divided opinion among educators regarding the impact of technology on student learning. The survey, which included responses from over 180 educators, found that 29% believe technology improves learning, while 36% feel it hinders it. Supporters argue that technology provides tools for differentiated instruction, access to current information, and prepares students for a tech-driven workplace. Critics, however, point out that technology can be distracting, facilitate cheating, and reduce critical thinking skills. The survey highlights the ongoing debate about the role of technology in education, with educators expressing both the benefits and challenges of integrating digital tools into the classroom.
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Denver Public Schools Considers Comprehensive Cellphone Ban to Enhance Student Focus

Denver Public Schools Considers Comprehensive Cellphone Ban to Enhance Student Focus

Denver Public Schools (DPS) is evaluating a proposal for a comprehensive ban on cellphones and other personal technology during school hours. This initiative follows a state law mandating all Colorado school districts to establish policies on student cellphone use by July 1. A 17-member committee, comprising parents, educators, and community members, recommended the ban to address distractions and improve mental health among students. The proposed policy would prohibit smartphones, smartwatches, and earbuds from the start to the end of the school day, with exceptions for medical or special education needs. The policy aims to standardize enforcement across classrooms, addressing inconsistencies that have previously undermined similar efforts. School board members Marlene De La Rosa and Kimberlee Sia are tasked with drafting the policy, which is expected to be introduced next week, with a final vote scheduled for June 11.
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Education Experts Discuss Challenges of Defining and Managing Screen Time for Children

Education Experts Discuss Challenges of Defining and Managing Screen Time for Children

Education Week has published an article exploring the complexities of defining and managing screen time for children in today's digital age. The article highlights the challenges faced by parents and educators in setting appropriate screen time limits, given the pervasive nature of digital devices in education and social interactions. Experts argue that the responsibility of managing screen time should not solely fall on parents but should be a shared effort with educators and policymakers. The American Academy of Pediatrics has updated its guidelines to offer more flexible recommendations, acknowledging the difficulty in distinguishing between entertainment and necessary digital interactions. The article also discusses the potential negative impacts of excessive screen time on children's physical and mental health, including risks of depression, weight gain, and sleep disturbances.
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School Cellphone Bans Encourage Student Interaction at Lunch Tables

School Cellphone Bans Encourage Student Interaction at Lunch Tables

Richard Mercado, a baseball coach at Mater Dei High School, has observed a significant change in student behavior during lunch periods following the implementation of a cellphone ban. According to Mercado, students are now engaging in conversations with one another instead of being absorbed in their phones. This shift has been noted as a positive development, as students are interacting more with their peers, including those outside their usual social circles. The trend of banning cellphones during school hours is gaining traction in various schools and districts, aiming to foster better communication and social skills among students.
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Washington Receives 'F' for Lack of Statewide School Cellphone Ban

Washington Receives 'F' for Lack of Statewide School Cellphone Ban

Washington state has been given an 'F' grade in a new report card for failing to implement a statewide ban on cellphones in schools. The report, released by several child well-being organizations, evaluates states on their policies requiring students to store phones during school hours. While Washington has not enacted a statewide ban, it has passed Senate Bill 5346, which aims to help districts develop phone policies by 2030. The bill, signed by Gov. Bob Ferguson, directs the state superintendent to provide best-practice recommendations by 2027. Advocates argue that immediate action is needed to address the distractions caused by phones in schools.
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Human Error Poses Major Threat to Student Privacy Under FERPA

Human Error Poses Major Threat to Student Privacy Under FERPA

At the 2026 Consortium for School Networking (CoSN) conference, data security adviser Mike Tassey highlighted human error as the greatest threat to student privacy under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). A common mistake, such as using 'CC' instead of 'BCC' in emails, can compromise student privacy by revealing sensitive information. Tassey emphasized that FERPA violations often result from unintentional errors and systemic misunderstandings of data ownership. He stressed the importance of transparency and quick response to breaches, as well as the need for schools to understand their legal responsibilities regarding student data.
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Trump's dyslexia barbs stir anguish and anger, perpetuating a myth about the learning disability

Trump's dyslexia barbs stir anguish and anger, perpetuating a myth about the learning disability

Some of the harshest words that President Donald Trump has used against a leading Democratic rival aren't about political differences but rather a learning disability
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FERPA Compliance Threatened by Human Error in School Data Management

FERPA Compliance Threatened by Human Error in School Data Management

At the 2026 Consortium for School Networking (CoSN) conference, Mike Tassey, a data security adviser with the Privacy Technical Assistance Center at the U.S. Department of Education, highlighted the persistent threat of human error to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) compliance. Tassey illustrated this with a scenario where a teacher accidentally exposed sensitive student information by using the 'CC' field instead of 'BCC' in an email, compromising the privacy of students receiving special education services. This incident underscores the vulnerability of student data to unintentional mistakes, despite sophisticated cyber defenses. Tassey emphasized that FERPA violations often stem from misunderstandings of data ownership and assumptions about vendor security, rather than malicious intent. He stressed the importance of transparency and timely response in managing such breaches.
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AI Integration in Education: Enhancing Efficiency and Personalization in U.S. Schools

AI Integration in Education: Enhancing Efficiency and Personalization in U.S. Schools

AI Integration in Education: Enhancing Efficiency and Personalization in U.S. Schools