Classroom Screen Time Guidelines supports students’ digital well-being

As digital learning tools continue to shape modern education, Dallas ISD is implementing Classroom Screen Time Guidelines for students of all grades to safeguard their learning experiences. 

“Dallas ISD takes screen time concerns seriously,” Angie Gaylord, chief of Academic Services, said. “Instead of increasing device usage, Dallas ISD has enforced strict screen time limits.”

These guidelines establish grade-level recommendations for daily screen use while reinforcing that technology should enhance, not replace, rigorous, teacher-led instruction.

Recommended daily limits are based on a full seven-hour instructional day:

• Pre-k to second grade: Maximum of 60 minutes per day

• Third through fifth grades: Maximum of 90 minutes per day

• Sixth through eighth grades: Maximum of 120 minutes per day

• Ninth through 12th grades: Screen use will vary according to students’ selected pathways, including AP, IB, P-TECH, dual-credit, and Career and Technical Education courses.

The guidelines also describe practical classroom examples, including a quick reference that suggests how to turn passive consumption into applied learning.

For instance, rather than simply watching an educational video, students are encouraged to predict outcomes, summarize content, and discuss topics with peers. 

Through these guidelines, Dallas ISD is setting clear expectations for when technology adds value to learning and how students benefit from teacher-led instruction and collaboration.