LAUSD Implements New Policy to Limit Screen Time for Youngest Students
The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) is implementing a new policy starting in August that significantly limits screen time for its youngest students, including those in preschool, transitional kindergarten, kindergarten, and first grade. The policy aims to reduce digital…
Los Angeles, CA, July 30, 2026 —
The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) is set to introduce a new policy in August aimed at significantly reducing screen time for its youngest learners. The policy will affect students in preschool, transitional kindergarten, kindergarten, and first grade, with the goal of limiting their use of digital devices during the school day.
This initiative aligns with a growing concern and broader trend among educators and parents regarding the impact of extensive technology exposure on early childhood development. The LAUSD policy intends to foster more traditional, off-screen learning experiences and assignments for these age groups.
While the policy seeks to curb digital device usage, specific exceptions are in place. These include instances where digital use is required for mandated assessments, for students enrolled in the district’s virtual academy, and for students who have documented educational needs that necessitate the use of digital tools. Details regarding the specific types of educational needs or the process for determining these exceptions were not provided.
The development of this policy was influenced by advocacy efforts from parent groups, such as Schools Beyond Screens, which have been vocal about the need to decrease technology dependence among young students. The group’s advocacy highlights a desire for learning environments that prioritize hands-on activities and face-to-face interaction.
Questions have been raised regarding the practicalities of enforcing the new screen time limitations across numerous classrooms and schools within the large district. Additionally, concerns persist about the potential impact on students who may have limited access to digital devices and educational technology resources outside of the school environment. The district has not yet released specific details on enforcement mechanisms or plans to address potential disparities in out-of-school access.
Story summarized from the original created by Mariana Dale,Elly Yu on laist.com, see more information here.
Media gallery
