About this event:

As student access to personal and district-provided devices continues to expand, school leaders are facing increasingly complex questions about when, how, and why technology should be used during the school day. Conversations around device use often surface deeply held beliefs about learning, engagement, equity, well-being, and preparedness for life beyond school, making them both essential and challenging. An example may be the importance of students' having skills in information literacy and technical aptitude in general vs. students using school devices outside of school for personal use that contributes to negative mental health outcomes.

This event creates a structured, judgment-free space for district leaders to explore the tensions surrounding device use in schools. Participants will engage in guided dialogue grounded in real-world scenarios, emerging research, and district-level considerations. Leaders will examine how device use intersects with instructional goals, student development, digital citizenship, mental health, and community expectations.

Through collaborative discussion, participants will:

-Surface common dilemmas and competing priorities related to student device use
-Explore the leadership role in shaping shared understanding and consistent practices
-Review the new WI Information and Technology Standards and how these play into the integration of intentional use of classroom devices
-Reflect on strategies for facilitating productive conversations with educators, families, and students
-Lean into research from recent books such as The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt and The Digital Delusion by Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath

Schedule:

• February 26, 2026: 9:00 am - 3:30 pm

Location: In-Person at CESA 2