DC for Democracy

ALT I fully support Chairman Mendelson’s resolution, co-introduced by two of my colleagues, to disapprove the renewal of the DC Public Schools i-Ready contract. Our youngest learners deserve classrooms centered on human connection, strong instruction, reading, creativity, and engagement with teachers, not excessive screen time.   My experience and belief is that to achieve the best student outcomes, our public schools should set strict limits on screen time in early years, end overreliance on Ed-Tech in test preparation, and develop guidance with teachers for appropriate technology by grade, with transparency for parents on tools and their purposes.

ALT I also believe the i-Ready contract with Curriculum Associates LLC should not be renewed while the platform faces ongoing federal class action litigation related to student data privacy and security concerns. DC families deserve confidence that student information is being protected and handled responsibly.   The Chairman’s resolution creates an important opportunity for DCPS to reassess whether continued reliance on this platform, or any other, aligns with healthy child development, student well-being, data protection, and the best interests of children and families.