Giunta explains exceptions to screen time policy
Giunta details exceptions to the screen time limits: assistive technology for students with disabilities and multilingual learners, digital assessments and diagnostics, out-of-school learning, and centrally approved instructional programs like e-books and coding classes.
To ensure this policy serves students equitably and effectively, there are a few important exceptions to the restrictions outlined above.
The first is for students with disabilities and multilingual learners who require the use of assistive technologies.
Assistive technology is preserved across all grades under the screen time policy as well as our AI policy.
In fact, we are legally required to utilize technologies mandated by an individualized education plan or 504 plan.
These are specific tools for specific students determined by the student's IEP team, which includes students'parents.
Other exceptions to the screen time policy include assessments and diagnostics.
Digital assessments are exempt from screen time limits because they provide information educators need to improve student learning.
Digital universal screeners and diagnostic assessments allow schools to quickly identify students who may need additional support,
pinpoint specific skill gaps, and track growth over time, enabling educators to determine whether interventions are having the desired impact.
The exemption also reflects the reality that many assessments our students encounter, including the state exams, the SAT, driver permit tests, are all administered digitally.
The screen time limits also do not apply to out-of-school learning, such as remote instruction days and virtual learning programs.
Finally, certain centrally approved instructional programs will be granted exceptions.
These may include e-books and classes such as robotics and coding where the subject matter requires screen use.
The purpose of these exceptions is not to expand a student's weekly screen time without purpose, but to appropriately allow for academic experiences that may require access to a computer.
We will encourage schools to reduce screen time use in other subjects when schools or when students have a period such as computer lab during the day.