Parents urge board to pause or scrutinize proposed three‑year Google contract
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Summary
Two parents urged the MMSD board to reconsider a proposed three‑year Google Workspace for Education Plus contract (agenda item 10.8), citing concerns about young children’s screen time, learning outcomes, data privacy, and insufficient transparency on classroom tech usage.
Two parents used the public comment period to oppose agenda item 10.8, a proposed three‑year contract for Google Workspace for Education Plus.
Ellen Merker, mother of a 4K student, said young children reported frequent viewing of YouTube and TV-style content during the school day and urged the district to publish clear, grade‑by‑grade policies on screen time, the apps and platforms in use, whether noneducational apps are allowed, and how third parties use or sell student data. Merker cited research she said shows reading on screens reduces comprehension and said parents lack clear information about classroom tech use.
Amy Martino also urged the board to question the district’s investment in Google products and other EdTech, recommended a technology audit, and provided a short list of audit questions for the district (why the tool was purchased, whether outcomes can be achieved without tech, developmentally appropriateness, independent research evidence, time costs for teachers and students, and privacy/trade‑offs).
The public comments were attached to the board materials. The March 16 meeting did not record a board vote on agenda item 10.8; the comments request clearer public-facing policies and stronger vetting before contract renewal.
