Dear Families and Community members,
The news today is full of concerns/questions over the use of technology in the schools and in classrooms. In case you missed it in principal newsletters, here is our implemented plan for the elementary sites as we start the school year. I will include updates for middle and high school in the near future.
As part of our ongoing commitment to safe, developmentally appropriate, and intentional technology use, NUSD has reviewed our elementary technology practices based on current research and feedback from teachers, administrators, and families. Our focus is on limiting unnecessary screen time and using technology purposefully, when it has a clear instructional benefit and supports student learning.
For the 2026–27 school year, we have:
- Significantly limited device use in TK and Kindergarten, with an emphasis on hands-on learning, interaction, and developmentally appropriate activities.
- Strengthened internet filtering and limited website access for TK–5 students.
- Limited YouTube to teacher-selected videos, with no free browsing.
- Continued to keep generative AI tools, including ChatGPT and Gemini, off for elementary students.
- Established clearer expectations that devices are used under the direction of the classroom teacher and for a specific learning purpose.
- Limited student device use with short-term substitutes unless approved by the principal.
- Continued to keep student devices at school to help limit unnecessary screen time and maintain a school-based, instructional focus.
- Increased our focus on age-appropriate digital literacy and responsible technology use.
We will continue to review our practices and work with teachers and families to support thoughtful, safe, and age-appropriate technology use.
Warmly,
Dr. Tracy Smith
Superintendent, Novato Unified School District
