A teacher assists a student as they work with a computer program. Others students can be seen in the classroom working on chromebooks.

In August, we asked parents for feedback regarding smart device usage in our schools.   The results of those surveys can be found here.  Additionally, we held roundtable discussions at Gurney and the Intermediate School.  There were some concerns about our technology program that were shared at those discussions as well.  You can read the findings from those roundtable discussions here (Gurney / Intermediate School). 

What We’ve Done
The District has addressed the concerns in a number of ways. 

  1. Prior to the start of the year, the District informed all students and families that we would be enforcing the existing smart device policy across all buildings. 

    • Grades PS-6:  No smart devices are allowed during the school day. 

    • Grade 7-12:  Smart devices are not allowed during class time. These devices are allowed in between classes and at lunch/recess. 

  1. Social media sites such as Instagram and TikTok were blocked at the 7-12 level on school issued devices.  Social media sites have always been blocked for PS-6.


  2. As of December 2, 2024, the technology department implemented stricter YouTube restrictions for PS-6 students. Most videos on YouTube were blocked, with "Strict Mode" filtering content through an automated system to screen out inappropriate videos while leaving some suitable ones accessible. Teachers can review and select videos needed for educational purposes, which the technology team will then make accessible.  

    UPDATE DEC 10th: Additional restrictions have been put on YouTube. We continue to monitor this and adjust the filtering accordingly.

Where We Are Going
As we continue to work through these changes, we are taking a look at some additional changes.

  1. The District has allowed students to bring personal computing devices (laptops, Macbooks) instead of using their Chromebook for daily work.  Those devices still receive filtered internet access while connected to the District network. However because they are personal devices, students may be able to access content not permitted on school devices because they are not subject to GoGuardian and other district safeguards.  The District is gathering feedback on if we will continue to allow students to bring personal devices in the future.

  2. There have been some concerns about students using devices during their lunch / recess period as well. We have reviewed the feedback from parents, students, and staff about this issue.  We are continuing to discuss these concerns and are reviewing potential solutions that would work for everyone involved.

  3. Additionally, there have been some concerns raised about use of the Chromebooks in the library at Gurney. We are exploring how devices are currently being utilized, including during library, indoor recess and free choice time to ensure that all use is consistent and focused on enhancing student learning.