Morton board asks tech task force to study K–2 iPad use, seeks updates in September and October

The Morton CUSD 709 board asked its technology task force to work with elementary principals and K–2 teachers to develop a plan for potentially reducing or eliminating 1:1 iPad use in kindergarten through second grade.

Board members said medical literature and teacher experience raise concerns about screen time harms for very young children. Trustee Diane (as addressed in the meeting) pressed for a quicker pace: “I really would like for us to set this as a priority for the next quarter,” she said, adding that the district should not wait a year if evidence supports change.

Administrators and classroom teachers said rollout history and testing requirements complicate any sudden change. A kindergarten teacher noted that 1:1 and testing on devices were implemented roughly a decade ago and that early grades already have a rotation that includes dedicated computer‑lab or cart time. District staff emphasized the need for a change‑management approach to avoid disrupting classrooms.

The board settled on a two‑step timeline: a short update in September after elementary principals meet in late July and teachers return in August, and a fuller discussion item in October timed with teacher professional meetings and early‑release schedules. District officials said the tech task force will solicit feedback from teachers and principals and produce a timeline and implementation plan for the board’s review.

No formal policy change was adopted at the meeting; trustees asked staff to maintain dialogue and to return with data and recommended options before taking any action.

Next steps recorded at the meeting: the tech task force will meet principals at the end of July, provide a brief report in September and a discussion item in October for a fuller board review.