Template · Your own child
Request for paper-based alternatives
When to use this
This letter asks for paper-based alternatives for your own child. It's framed as a request to work together, not a refusal. Talk with the teacher first, then send this to the teacher and principal together.
About 10 minutes to personalize
Know before you send
- Families who ask are often the first in their district, and staff may not know what's allowed. Expect a conversation, not an instant yes.
- Alternatives can add work for teachers. Offer to help: printing, supplying books, or picking up materials.
- Your child may be asked why they're doing something different. Talk with them about it in a positive way beforehand.
- State tests and some assessments may still require a device. Ask what's required rather than assuming.
- This is a family decision. Choosing it, or not, doesn't make anyone a better or worse parent.
Template text
[Highlighted] text is yours to fill in.
Subject: Request for paper-based alternatives for [child's name], [grade]
Dear [Teacher name] and [Principal name],
Thank you for the conversation on [date] about technology in [child's name]'s class. As we discussed, our family would like [child's name] to do as much of the school day as possible with books, paper, and hands-on materials.
We respectfully request the following for the [school year] school year, where possible:
Paper versions of classwork and homework that are currently assigned on a device
Printed books for independent reading in place of reading apps
That [child's name] not bring a school device home [if applicable]
An alternative activity during independent device time, such as reading, writing, or a hands-on task
We're not asking to opt out of [computer class / keyboarding / digital safety lessons], or of assessments the district or state requires. We understand technology is part of life, and we want [child's name] to learn it as a subject.
We know this may create extra work, and we'd like to help. We can [supply books / print materials / pick up and return work weekly].
Could we meet for 20 minutes to agree on what's workable? We're flexible and grateful for your partnership.
Thank you,
[Parent or guardian names]
[Phone] · [Email]
Keep the accessibility line. This request never applies to assistive technology, AAC devices, or accommodations under IEP and 504 plans.
If the answer is no
- Ask which specific items can't be accommodated, and why, in writing.
- Ask who makes the decision, and request a meeting with that person.
- Keep every exchange polite and documented. A single family's request often starts the district-wide conversation.
- More help: the UnPlug EdTech Toolkit and Fairplay's Opting Out of EdTech fact sheet.