Round Rock Parents Petitioned for Fewer Screens
A group of parents is asking the school district to limit classroom technology use to boost student focus.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Primary Education
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Parents in the Round Rock Independent School District have launched a petition seeking to limit digital device usage in classrooms. The movement, led by a coalition called Schools Beyond Screens, has gathered over 1,200 signatures to advocate for ten specific policy changes.
Why it matters
The coalition argues that excessive screen use in school negatively impacts student focus and critical thinking. They are pushing for these adjustments to prioritize traditional learning methods for students in the district.
The petition includes over 1,200 signatures and demands 10 specific policy adjustments, including a goal to eliminate device usage for students in grades PreK-2.
The players
Round Rock Independent School District
The local educational authority currently reviewing instructional technology practices following community feedback.
Schools Beyond Screens
A coalition of local parents advocating for reduced digital device usage in classroom settings.
Vera Southwell
A candidate for Place 3 on the Board of Trustees responding to parental concerns about classroom technology.
The details
The Schools Beyond Screens coalition is calling for these changes after concerns were raised regarding high levels of daily screen engagement among children. According to a May 2026 report from the Federal Communications Commission, children as young as eight already spend up to 5.5 hours daily on screens, which the report linked to lower math and reading achievement. The district is currently evaluating these requests through public instructional technology focus groups.
Timeline
May 2026: The FCC published its report on children's screen time.
October 9, 2026: Candidates responded to requests for comment regarding the petition.
The Home Front
This effort marks a departure from the district's recent trend toward digital integration in instructional settings. It aligns with broader national debates about the impact of screen exposure on foundational academic achievement benchmarks.
If you have students in the district, you may want to review the current technology policies listed in your student handbook to understand how devices are being utilized in class. Consider attending future district focus groups to share your feedback on the balance between digital and traditional instruction.
The takeaway
The parent-led push for reduced screens highlights a growing concern over the volume of daily digital stimulation for young learners. Families should track upcoming Board of Trustees discussions to see if the district adjusts its instructional technology requirements.
Further reading
Learn more about local school board initiatives in our Primary Education section.
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