District committee proposes voluntary K–5 screen‑time guidelines; board praises collaborative approach

The Coweta County School System presented recommendations from a K–5 screen‑time committee on June 2, proposing voluntary guidelines to balance purposeful technology use with hands‑on learning.

Dr. Cheryl Mccharge, director of elementary curriculum, said the committee included 19 teachers (one from each elementary school), six elementary principals, three parents and district staff. The committee’s April survey produced 1,190 parent responses, 379 teacher responses and 14 administrator responses. Stakeholders reported that technology has classroom benefits—personalized learning, intervention and feedback—but expressed concerns about excessive screen time, decreased attention and diminished peer interaction. Parents requested non‑screen homework options and age‑appropriate uses of devices.

The committee recommended issuing voluntary guidance in August for the coming school year to allow staff to pilot and refine practices; the board members praised the group’s inclusive process and one board member called the guidance slogan “power down to level up.” Dr. Mccharge said staff will continue to refine the guidance and consider additional stakeholder input next year.

Board members emphasized clear communication with parents about active versus passive technology use and thanked the committee for soliciting broad input. The board did not take formal regulatory action; the recommendations are guidance to be implemented and reviewed.