"You were in it for real
She was in her phone"

Opalite by OK Go

Hey Reader,

This newsletter is a response to last week's newsletter. Read it here​

What you're saying about tech in schools:

In January Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath, PhD, MEd shared the results of his assessments on school data over the past 50 years to Congress. The results were astounding, suggesting that when a country's school system widely adapts technology, student test scores are impacted.

Here's what some of you said in response to last week's newsletter

What parents / caretakers are saying:

This is so bad for students! With my oldest (she's 24 now) I liked that she got tech time a few times a week in school. It felt special. Now my youngest (she's 15) seems to be on a Chromebook all day long. Her handwriting and spelling is terrible and she always wants to cut corners.

- K, parent

My son (4th grade) has ADHD and I hate that he's on a computer all day. It's so bad for his brain. He is so distracted at school. It really frustrates me to see he's forced to do most of his work online.

- T, parent

There's got to be a balance. I want my kids to know how to use computers, but not at the sacrifice of other skills.

- M, parent

I never thought I'd say this, but I miss homework! I used to feel so connected with my child. All kids got the same homework, so I could understand where my child was doing good and where they weren't. Now they use an adaptive app. I'm never sure if he is on grade level or not. Now I just put him on iReady for 20 minutes. I don't understand what he is doing or HOW he is doing in class.

-J, parent

What teachers are saying:

I'm in my 34th year teaching: I could have written this study!

-M, teacher

My district forces us to use certain apps. If students aren't on the apps for a certain number of minutes each week, then I get a talking to. I don't even think these apps are helpful. It feels like the district spent a lot of money on these apps and don't care what the impact is.

-J, teacher

I teach kindergarten and I refuse to lean into apps. My iPads aren't even charged. My students are little. They need to be playing, they need small group instruction, they need to be talking to each other. They get plenty of time on screens at home. I've been here 20 years and lasted longer than any superintendent or principal. I'm not giving in.

-B, kindergarten teacher

It Starts With You

I've talked with countless parents that are concerned about the rising screen time in schools. It comes up almost every time I host the School Talk Workshop or have a call with the family of a rising kindergartner.

Schools are bought into technology. The push for 1:1 technology was so strong that, they've completely abandoned textbooks and invested in tech. They will continue to renew these expensive contracts...

unless there's an outcry.

Parent and community organizing has a huge impact on districts. If this is keeping you up at night, I suggest you get involved with parent advocacy groups. Go to school board meetings, attend community input sessions, start letter writing campaigns. This is an area where parents can make a HUGE impact- not just for your child, but for all the children in your area.

Keep me posted!

What's New?

🎥 Rising First Grader?: If you're kiddo is going to first grade next year watch the First Grade Video. You'll understand what's coming up socially and academically.

🥾 Outdoorsy: Last weekend I went for a really good hike on Crowder's Mountain. This year I want to get more comfortable hiking and spending time outside of the city. It's good for my body and mind. Do you hike?

Things I Love (contains affiliate links)

💐 Everyday Shirts: I love these shirts! They are pima cotton with a stretch. I wear them all the time with jeans or for layering. Always $35, they come in a V Neck, Crew Neck, and Tank.

🍀 St Patty's Day!: These kids St Patty's day shirts are so cute and under $7! I think these designs could be worn year round Hello Kitty and Lucky Charms​

Have a wonderful rest of your week,