Systematic review · Strength: Strong
Screens in Oregon schools
Teach technology as a subject, not as the medium for every subject.
Kids can learn computer skills in a computer class and still do math on paper, read physical books and write by hand.
What we're focused on
Screens as the default way young children learn.
1:1 device programs in the early grades
A device for every child, starting in kindergarten or first grade.
Core subjects taught mainly through screens
Reading, writing and math delivered by apps instead of books, paper and a teacher.
What we're not against
Technology that clearly helps.
Computer classes
Typing, research skills and online safety, taught well.
Thoughtful teacher use
A teacher choosing a tool because it fits the lesson.
Assistive technology
AAC devices and IEP and 504 accommodations are essential. Read our accessibility statement.
What the research says
The evidence behind our position, including what it doesn't show.
Experiment · Strength: Strong
Norwegian 10-year-olds scored lower on a reading test taken on screen than on paper
Read the summaryMeta-analysis · Strength: Strong
Ages 1 to 8: digital picture books lower story comprehension unless very well designed
Read the summaryPolicy report · Strength: Moderate
OECD: heavy school computer use and big tech investment didn't raise scores
Read the summarySeptember 2026
What's changing
In Oregon
Portland
September 2026The board's policy committee discussed a draft policy that would end K-2 screen use during the school day and limit grades 3 to 8 to centralized spaces like computer labs. A board work plan shows a policy could be developed through November.
Willamette WeekKATUTigard-Tualatin
August 2026After inviting families to listening sessions in June, a district work group recommended less screen time for elementary and middle school students, blocking sites like YouTube on school devices, and replacing middle school iPads with Chromebooks that stay at school. The recommendations went to the school board at the end of August.
KXLValley TimesMedford
Spring 2026The district announced it will reduce device use in kindergarten through 2nd grade starting in 2026-27, citing research on language development.
OPB
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Is something happening in your district? Tell us
Across the country
Los Angeles Unified
The nation's second-largest district voted unanimously in April 2026 to set screen time limits by grade, remove student devices through 1st grade, and publish a report of all classroom technology contracts.
LAUSD announcement(lausd.org)(opens in a new tab)States are passing laws
By July 2026, four states had passed laws limiting or regulating screen time from child care through 5th grade. Iowa capped K-5 digital instruction at 60 minutes a day, Utah is ending one device per student in elementary school, Tennessee requires every K-5 district to adopt a device policy, and Alabama is setting screen time standards for child care, pre-K and kindergarten.
Stateline coverage(stateline.org)(opens in a new tab)U.S. Department of Education
In August 2026 the U.S. Department of Education said edtech should be judged by whether it improves learning, not by minutes alone. We agree that's the right question. Ask your district to show the evidence for each product.
Press release(ed.gov)(opens in a new tab)The guidance letter (PDF)(ed.gov)(opens in a new tab)Our summaryTake action
Four steps any Oregon parent can take.
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