ARDMORE, Pa. (WPHL) — New information about a Chromebook controversy in the Lower Merion School District.
In a Monday night vote, the school board scrapped the existing technology policy to pave the way for a brand-new set of rules.
This comes after months of debate over the 1:1 device program that provides Chromebooks or iPads to students.
Many parents have questioned the amount of screen time students are exposed to and whether enough safeguards are in place to monitor device usage outside the classroom.
The policy included language regarding a parent’s right to opt their child out of receiving a district-issued device.
However, the administration recently pushed back, stating that a true “opt-out” isn’t possible.
By repealing the policy on Monday night, the board wiped away that “opt-out” clause, leaving the district in a temporary limbo.
Parents and students voiced their concern at the school board meeting.
However, some board members pushed back, such as Anna Shurak.
“By not repealing that policy, it does not allow educators or our administrators to do what’s necessary to enact the change the community has been asking for,” she said.
According to Action News at 10 on PHL 17, a new proposal that will be considered states technology won’t be used for classroom instruction for K-2 students, they won’t be issued an individual device until the 5th grade, and they won’t be required to take it home until 7th grade.
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