School Screens

Do students use computers or tablets at your school? Most schools have them. In 2025, about 88% of public schools in the United States had a digital device for every student. That is according to the U.S. National Center for Education Statistics. Devices can help kids learn. These include laptops and tablets. But some experts are worried about screen use in schools.

These kids are using computers at school. Many students in the United States do.

Tech Talk

Technology is an important part of people’s lives. It can make tasks easier. Technology can help teachers do their job. Some kids do their homework using a laptop or tablet. Devices are also helpful to kids with different learning needs. They can help with writing and speaking.

Technology can help adults do their jobs. This teacher is using a tablet.

But technology is not perfect. It can be distracting. It can affect a person’s attention span. That is why some school districts are limiting screen time. The Los Angeles Unified School District is one. It is in California. It has banned classroom screens before second grade. It has also limited screen time for older students. The new rules took effect in August.

This classroom device helps students with writing and speaking.

Andrés Chait leads the district. He spoke at a school board meeting. He said the rules are about finding a “healthy balance.”

A Healthy Approach

Not all schools are limiting screens. But all students can try to use tech in a healthy way. Janine Domingues is a psychologist. She talked to TFK about technology. She said it can be “a tool” in the classroom. Kids should take “body breaks” from screens, she says. That might mean stretching. It might mean going out for recess. Turn the page to read more tips for healthy tech use.

Experts say students should learn to work together, both with and without screens.