(WHTM)\u2013 A Pennsylvania lawmaker is proposing restricting young students from taking home school-issued devices as part of legislation aimed at cutting down screen time in classrooms.<\/p>\n
The legislation<\/a>, proposed by State Sen. Lisa Boscola (D-18), would limit classroom screen time for kindergarten, first, and second-grade students in Pennsylvania.<\/p>\n Specifically, the legislation would restrict K-2 students from taking home school-issued devices and prevent schools from relying on them as a substitute for foundational early learning. The memo said that the bill would not restrict teachers from continuing computer science curriculum or technology-based coursework.<\/p>\n The legislation comes after a significant decline in statewide ELA proficiency scores<\/a>. According to Boscola\u2019s memo, statewide ELA proficiency scores fell below 50% for the first time in a decade during the 2024-25 PSSA scoring cycle.<\/p>\n Boscola argues that devices in the hands of K-2 students are contributing to the decline in ELA scores, raising the question of whether young students are receiving enough hands-on, direct, and developmentally appropriate instruction.<\/p>\n Boscola cites a study showing that handwriting plays a significant role in helping young children learn letters, build reading skills, and develop writing fluency. An increased reliance on keyboards and tablets could contribute to weaker handwriting skills and motor development.<\/p>\n