Lee County board adopts resolution encouraging balanced instruction, reduced screen time

The Lee County Board of Education voted to adopt a resolution encouraging balanced instruction and reduced screen time for students, emphasizing pen‑and‑paper learning for younger students while preserving technology for instruction where it clearly benefits learning.

What the resolution says The resolution affirms support for handwriting and paper reading as core elements of instruction, directs that teachers and students have access to both printed and digital materials, and asks the district to provide professional development to help teachers blend traditional and digital approaches effectively. It also notes the state’s online testing requirements and calls for sufficient technology exposure so students can complete required online assessments.

Comments from the board During discussion a board member commented on the addictive quality of some games and the value of keeping students engaged in non‑screen activities: “Screens are an addiction... My kids play Fortnite. They go through withdrawals,” the board member said during discussion. Other board members stressed balance and the need to avoid imposing new burdens on teachers without resources for implementation. The resolution passed on a board vote.

Implementation The resolution asks that selection of materials be informed by data and educator input and that the district continue to support teacher training on blending approaches. No district‑wide ban or device removal was proposed; the resolution is advisory and emphasizes balanced practice.

Ending Board members said they will bring further recommendations — including possible advocacy to the state on testing‑format options — to future meetings.