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Parents raise alarm about iPads, AI and data; board to review Schoology contract
Summary
Multiple parents urged FCPS to tighten rules on classroom technology, teacher training and student data privacy; board members asked staff for an evaluation of the Schoology contract that expires in June 2026 and pledged a committee review of edtech use and procurement.
Several parents and community members used the public‑comment period on March 19 to press the Fairfax County Public Schools board for clearer policies on classroom technology and artificial intelligence.
Jennifer Cheng, who identified herself as a parent of two fourth‑grade children, said many parents were surprised to learn iPads had been provided to kindergarten students and expressed concern about increased screen time, impacts on memory and development, and inconsistent safeguards. "The majority of parents did not know you were providing iPads to kindergarteners," she said, urging the board to adopt strict age‑based limits and clearer communications with families.
Speakers in Spanish and English called for stronger teacher preparation before new tools are introduced, third‑party protocol reviews for AI tools, transparent disciplinary policies tied to technology misuse and a district advisory or counseling committee to oversee the use of devices and AI in classrooms.
Separately, board members raised formal questions about the district’s Schoology learning management contract, which staff said expires in June 2026 and includes extension options. Members asked who participates in renewal decisions and urged a systemwide evaluation of Schoology’s effectiveness and community impacts before any extension is finalized. Staff said procurement, instruction, technology and finance will participate in any review and that a committee will work through the process.
Why it matters: Parents described direct classroom experience — early iPad deployment, Chromebooks and AI use — and asked the board to ensure decisions affecting student learning and data privacy involve parents, teachers and disaggregated data on effectiveness.
What’s next: Board members requested an evaluation of Schoology use and a clear timeline for procurement review before the contract renewal window in June.
