Policy panel backs limits on classroom Chromebook use for preK–1

Carolyn Williams, chair of the Policy Review Committee for Virginia Beach City Public Schools, said the committee on May 14 reviewed and amended section D of Policy 618 (instructional time) to limit routine classroom Chromebook use for prekindergarten through first grade beginning in the 26 27 school year while preserving narrow assessment exceptions.

The committee agreed on language stating that "Chromebooks or similar devices shall not be utilized by students in pre kindergarten through first grade classroom settings." Williams said the section would not apply to technology use specified in a student's Section 504 plan, individualized education plan (IEP) or "limited educational assessment or other adaptive learning needs." Dr. Kelly told the committee that some division-adopted adaptive programs, such as Lexia Core5, are part of the division literacy plan and had previously required "a time range of between 20 minutes per week to up to 80 minutes per week" in certain grades.

Committee members stressed that reducing classroom screen time must not degrade instruction. Members asked staff to identify and fund high-quality print or non-screen supplemental materials, curriculum adjustments and professional development so teachers can continue differentiated instruction without relying on screen time. Staff said they will return recommended materials and resource options as the item advances toward a full-board report.

On device access, the committee kept second grade as a one-to-one classroom but debated take-home restrictions. The adopted language clarifies that grade 2 devices "will remain one-to-one Chromebooks or similar devices, but cannot be taken home" under routine circumstances; members asked staff to add a narrowly drawn exception permitting grade 2 students to take devices home "when schools are closed for severe weather events or other emergencies." Grades 3–5 will maintain one-to-one devices and may take them home as currently practiced.

The board also directed the superintendent or designee to provide an annual report and presentation on student screen time that includes grade-level aggregated data, trends and plans to mitigate excessive screen time.

Mr. Bowen moved—and Miss Delton seconded—that amended section D of Policy 618 be sent to the full school board for information. The committee approved the motion by voice vote. The PRC will return other policy items at its May 27 meeting.

Quotes from the meeting used with attribution include Dr. Kelly on assessment terminology and prior usage and the committee chair on the policy wording and next steps.