An Alabama state commission, formed by Gov. Kay Ivey, met Tuesday to review recommendations regarding screen use in classrooms. The Commission on Screen-Based Instruction considered how technology is currently employed across K-12 education and its potential impact, acknowledging the diverse needs of students and the complexities of defining modern educational tools. This discussion affects Dothan and Wiregrass parents, teachers, and school administrators as the state grapples with technology's role in learning environments.
Governor Ivey established the commission in July after signing House Bill 78. This bill, sponsored by Rep. Jeana Ross, R-Guntersville, during the 2026 regular legislative session, specifically set limits on screen usage for children up to five years old in licensed child care facilities. While HB 78 addressed early childhood, Rep. Ross also introduced House Bill 584, which aimed to establish screen time limits for all public K-12 students. However, HB 584 did not advance through the Senate before the Legislature concluded its session in April. The commission's ongoing work is expected to provide broader guidance on screen time across all age groups.
During Tuesday's meeting, the commission heard from two key groups: White Board Advisors, a consulting firm based in Washington D.C., and the Screen Use Impact on Teachers subcommittee. The subcommittee presented findings from a small survey of 61 K-12 teachers. This survey indicated that a significant majority of teachers, 67%, are utilizing screens in their classrooms for assignments or practice activities. Additionally, 54% of the surveyed teachers reported using devices for testing purposes.
Committee member Chris Jenks, who also serves as the Tuscaloosa City Schools technology director, highlighted Alabama's educational progress in relation to screen use. Jenks stated that "Alabama has...maintained or advanced achievement" outcomes compared to other states. He added that many assessments, which contribute to this outcome, "are delivered on a screen." This perspective underscores the reliance on digital tools for measuring student performance.
Ben Wallerstein, chief executive officer and co-founder of Whiteboard Advisors, addressed the often-misunderstood terms surrounding artificial intelligence (AI). Wallerstein suggested that when parents express concerns about AI in schools, they are likely envisioning scenarios such as "kids asking open-ended questions to Claude or ChatGPT." He contrasted this with more complex uses, like machine learning to analyze voice recordings to identify differences between new English speakers and struggling readers, pointing to a potential gap in understanding the full scope of AI's educational applications.
Sen. Linda Coleman-Madison, D-Birmingham, emphasized that "educating parents is key to the committee’s work," stating that family involvement must start at home. She suggested the commission must find a way "to educate the parents on what we’re trying to do."
Ami Brooks, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education, echoed the need for careful communication with parents. Brooks noted her department has had discussions about using language that "honors the parents" and avoids shaming them. She explained that parents often believe they are being helpful by "handing them a phone and showing them a letter game." Brooks further advised the committee on the importance of emphasizing everyday interactions with young children. She cited examples like "pointing out...produce" in the car, explaining that such everyday interactions build the brain, unlike passive screen time. Brooks called for raising awareness about "everyday interactions that are missed" when screens are used instead of conversation.
The Commission on Screen-Based Instruction is slated to submit its final report to Governor Ivey on December 1. The report is expected to consolidate these findings and recommendations, offering a comprehensive approach to screen usage in Alabama classrooms from early childhood through K-12. Dothan and Wiregrass residents will await this report to understand its potential implications for local school districts and families.