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While many schools in Wisconsin are banning cellphones in their classrooms, one state lawmaker wants to go further.
State Rep. David Steffen, R-Howard, this week introduced a plan that would ban all screens for kids in all classrooms through the second grade.
“The research is clear; our youngest students have the least to gain from screens in the classroom and the most to lose. Prioritizing digital learning over hands-on activities comes at a cost, especially during early development. Studies show that everything from language skills to attention span to math and reading outcomes are compromised by screen time during younger years,” Steffen said.
The legislation would mean kids could not use tablets or computers except in certain circumstances like state testing or computer science classes.
Steffen said other states have already adopted total screen bans. Lawmakers in Utah and Alabama passed similar legislation in their states.
Steffen said the plan also has buy-in from teachers' unions.
"The bill mirrors the position of the American Federation of Teachers, the second-largest teachers
union in the U.S., and their 'Devices Down, Eyes Up, Hands-On' proposal," he said in a statement.
“Beyond all the studies and research, I’ve had candid conversations with teachers in our community who have expressed their real concern for our kids and the impact of too much technology too soon. We are at the start of another exciting new school year, and I look forward to working on ways to continue building student success,” Steffen added.
The plan is just that, a plan. Steffen said he will formally introduce his legislation when lawmakers return to the Capitol in January. It will likely be a year-or-so before it could become law.
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