Decatur Pre-K Sees Success with Screen-Free Learning

Decatur City Schools' BEST Pre-K Academy has reported significant positive outcomes after adopting a screen-free learning environment this past year. Principal Jennifer Edwards noted that students became deeply engaged with hands-on activities and demonstrated a strong preference for books, with many children requesting to borrow books at the end of the school day.

This initiative predates Alabama's new Healthy Early Development and Screen Time Act, which Governor Kay Ivey signed into law on March 4 and will take effect on January 1, 2027. The act imposes limits on screen time for children in licensed childcare facilities and preschools, with specific restrictions for those under five years old.

Faith Plunkett, instructional technology coach for Decatur City Schools, highlighted that the school's decision to go screen-free a year prior to the mandate proved highly successful. Teachers actively supported parents by suggesting screen-free activities for home. This approach aimed to immerse young learners in literacy and play-based learning, crucial for development in the critical first five years of life.

Superintendent Michael Douglas expressed support for the screen-time bill for young learners while emphasizing the continued need for technology exposure for older students to prepare them for the workforce. He affirmed the district's commitment to balancing foundational reading skills with necessary technological literacy, ensuring students are well-equipped for future challenges.