Houston County superintendent among those helping shape Alabama screen-time rules

DOTHAN, Ala. (WTVY) -Houston County Schools Superintendent Brandy White is helping shape upcoming guidelines on classroom screen time as part of Governor Kay Ivey’s Commission on Screen-Based Instruction.

The commission, made up of lawmakers, parents and educators, met Tuesday to examine what students are doing on their devices and whether it enhances learning.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, classroom screen time has become part of daily lesson plans across Alabama. As devices multiply, the commission is addressing when and how technology should be used in classrooms.

“And it’s going to be some big decisions in education moving forward, dealing with screen time,” White said.

White and the commission agree that some classrooms use technology improperly.

“I think where we run into problems is, you probably do have some teachers in certain places that are using technology as a babysitter. And we can’t do that. We can’t put them on there to scroll. You know, there needs to be some engagement. There needs to be some teaching going on. And so, again, balance and purpose, I think, is the key,” White said.

The panel is preparing to draft recommendations next month. White said the commission’s priority is avoiding overcorrection and ensuring policies serve teachers, students and specific grade levels differently.

“I think a lot of times we tend to have a knee-jerk reaction and swing the pendulum back too far. So that’s one thing we’re trying to be careful of because technology is not going away. And that’s something that these students are going to need after high school. And so we want to be careful of that,” White said.

Another thing the commission must take into account is the subjects, classes, and instruction that require technology, and ensure that their recommendations do not interfere with those classes.

The commission was formed following legislative efforts to set boundaries on classroom screen usage. Members will meet several more times before submitting final recommendations to Governor Ivey in December.

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Houston County superintendent among those helping shape Alabama screen-time rules

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