Gov. Greg Abbott has put forward a proposal to limit the amount of time students spend using screens in Texas schools. The governor stated that such restrictions would improve student learning outcomes. During a campaign stop at Del Mar College in Corpus Christi on Sept. 13, Abbott emphasized that technology should be reserved for specific lessons and assessments.
He noted that devices should not replace teachers or other established learning methods. Abbott is currently seeking reelection against Democratic state Rep. Gina Hinojosa.
This proposal arrives one year after Texas lawmakers passed a statewide ban on cell phones in schools. It also coincides with a period when several local districts are developing their own rules regarding screen usage. In Richardson ISD, officials implemented a policy at the start of the school year to reduce passive screen time.
Under this rule, teachers can no longer offer extra screen time as a reward. Additionally, students are not permitted to use their devices during the final minutes of a class if they finish assignments early. While teachers may still use laptops and tablets for instruction, district leaders have asked them to be careful about how much time is spent on these devices.
Dallas ISD also introduced guidelines this month that cap screen time based on grade level. Students in pre-K through second grade are limited to less than one hour per day. Those in third through fifth grades may use screens for less than an hour and a half.
Students in sixth through eighth grades are allowed up to two hours daily. The district did not set specific limits for high school students, noting that usage varies significantly based on course selections.