01Start with curiosity
Teachers often have no choice about the tools they’re required to use. Begin by asking, and listen for who makes the decision.
02Questions to ask your teacher, principal or district
Checklist
- How many minutes per day are students on devices, by grade?
- Which platforms deliver core subjects like reading and math?
- Are elementary devices assigned one per student, shared on carts, or used in a lab? Do they go home?
- Is YouTube or gaming blocked on elementary devices?
- What AI tools are on student devices, and are they opt-in?
- What student data do vendors collect, and does each vendor have a signed privacy agreement?
- Is there a paper option for classwork, homework, and assessments?
- How does the district check whether a product actually improves learning before buying it?
Asking about one specific screen activity? Use our five questions for any screen activity.
More question lists:
03Look up your district’s apps
04When you need documents
A public records request is how you get the documents behind a decision: device and software contracts, usage data, and the district technology plan. Oregon law gives you the right to see them, and our guide covers what to ask for, timelines and fees.
05Ask for a screen-time audit
Ask the district to inventory the apps and devices students use and to measure time on devices by grade. Bend-La Pine’s April 2026 resolution directed the district to inventory its classroom technology. Your district can do the same.
Templates for this step
See all templatesLetter to a teacher or principal
This is a first conversation, not a demand.
Oregon public records request
Use this to get your district's technology contracts, usage data, and plans.
Last reviewed September 27, 2026.