San Diego Unified passes resolution to restrict classroom technology, with further reform to come

June 25, 2026 - 09:27

The San Diego Unified School District board has passed a resolution that will significantly scale back the use of technology in classrooms, starting with a ban on video streaming services when the new school year begins. The move is part of a broader effort to address concerns over student distraction, screen time, and the overall effectiveness of digital tools in learning environments.

Under the new policy, platforms like Netflix, YouTube, and other streaming services will no longer be accessible on school devices during instructional hours unless explicitly approved for a specific lesson. District officials say the change aims to refocus attention on direct instruction and face-to-face interaction. The resolution also calls for a review of all classroom technology usage, with further restrictions expected in the coming months.

Board members emphasized that the decision was not a rejection of technology altogether, but a response to data showing that unrestricted access often leads to off-task behavior. Teachers will still have the ability to request exemptions for educational content, but the default setting will shift toward a more limited digital environment.

The district plans to form a task force to study how devices are used across grade levels and to recommend additional reforms by the end of the fall semester. Parents and staff have been invited to provide input during the process. The changes are set to take effect in stages, with the streaming restriction being the first and most immediate step.