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Knox County board opens review of classroom technology and screen-time policies after surge of parent concern
Summary
Board members directed staff to prepare policy options after parents and the board raised concerns about device use in classrooms, YouTube and gaming access, monitoring tools (Hapara), and state testing moving online; staff proposed a July policy review and a committee to produce recommendations by spring 2027.
Board members on June 1 directed staff to prepare options to tighten or clarify district policy on classroom technology and screen time after a lengthy presentation and dozens of public comments.
The discussion was prompted by a resolution introduced by board member Miss Bike asking the superintendent for implementation guidance on acceptable use and requesting an implementation plan, audits, family communication plans, and an opt-out process. Board members and staff debated short-term steps required by newly enacted state law and longer-term committee work.
District technology staff described current controls: YouTube restricted mode and comment suppression for student accounts, classroom-management and "focus" tools available to teachers through Hapara, and a parental-control product (Custodial) that lets families monitor and limit home use of school-issued Chromebooks. IT staff acknowledged students sometimes find ways around filters and said they are evaluating additional restrictions (including stronger YouTube filtering and gaming limitations) before fall.
On assessments, staff noted the state will move more tests online next year (TCAP for grades 3—6 and other assessments), and principals will be asked to give students practice on the online platforms so students are familiar with the format.
Public forum speakers emphasized two linked concerns: that Chromebooks are often used as default screens during free time or indoor recess, and that families are not consistently informed about how to use parental controls. Many parents urged limiting device time in K—2; others asked for clear opt-out procedures and immediate fixes to filtering gaps.
Next steps: Staff will brief the board at a July policy-review meeting with concrete policy language and recommended options; board members signaled that a committee-driven process and community input should inform final recommendations, with a target of spring 2027 for a broader package of changes and immediate technical actions before students return in the fall where feasible.
Sources: Board discussion and staff answers with IT director Mr. Cox and curriculum staff; public forum statements.
