Page: Reforms
Reforms Needed
Our Requests
We urge Omaha Public Schools to adopt a comprehensive educational technology policy that includes the following:
Eliminate 1:1 device use for Kindergarten through 8th grade. Children need hands-on, in-person learning experiences above all else. Permanent 1:1 device assignment for young children contributes to excessive cumulative screen exposure.
Limited device use with a shared laptop cart or computer lab when deemed curriculum appropriate. Technology use should be a deliberate act rather than a mindless reflex.
Begin immediate phase out of touch screen devices and return to purchasing laptops.
Create clear pathways for families who wish to opt out of device-based instruction, without penalty or reprisal, providing low-tech alternatives.
Allow families to opt out of specific EdTech programs -- not just blanket consent forms -- and ensure alternative learning methods are always available.
Eliminate required digital learning minutes.
Provide transparency with parents regarding student screen time at school.
Block student access to YouTube, as well as all gaming, video-streaming and social media on student devices.
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 screen time from being used during free time or as a reward, incentive, or behavioral reinforcement for students. These unstructured times are critical for social development and should not be dominated by screens.
Encourage paper, physical textbooks, and off-screen homework. Research consistently shows better comprehension and retention with print materials. Policies should actively encourage analog alternatives, especially for homework at the elementary and middle school level.
Evaluate all EdTech contracts for educational value and student data privacy. Require independent review of EdTech products. Do not rely solely on vendor-supplied research. Ensure student data is protected and that contracts include accountability mechanisms.