The Broward County School Board is set to consider significant restrictions on classroom technology and artificial intelligence (AI) during its upcoming Tuesday meeting. The proposal, spearheaded by Chairwoman Sarah Leonardi, aims to curb excessive screen time for young students and establish stricter guidelines for AI integration across the district. This move represents a notable pivot from the school system's recent enthusiasm regarding digital tools, reflecting growing concerns among parents and educators about student well-being and privacy.
Proposed Restrictions on Early Childhood Education
The core of Leonardi’s request directs Superintendent Howard Hepburn to implement specific limits for pre-K through second-grade students. Under the proposed policy, screen time would be restricted "only what is necessary for state-mandated testing and/or accommodations for students with special needs." Additionally, the board seeks a comprehensive district policy on technology and AI, scheduled for discussion on August 4, which will include maximum limitations on device usage for all elementary school-level students.
Leonardi emphasized that the goal is not to eliminate technology but to ensure responsible use. "I think many of us have seen data that suggests that kids don't need to be on screens for much of their school day," Leonardi stated in an interview with the South Florida Sun Sentinel. She noted receiving feedback from round tables with parents and students, particularly regarding concerns about children's eyesight and the overuse of digital devices.
Enhanced Safety Monitoring via Linewize
A third component of the proposal involves enhancing student safety through software monitoring. The board will direct the implementation of "Linewize," a tool designed to detect concerning behavior on school-issued devices in real time. This system would flag instances where students express intentions to harm themselves or others, sending immediate alerts to the District Security Operations Center for review.
Shift from Previous Tech Initiatives
This proposed curtailment contrasts sharply with the district's actions over the past year. In June 2025, Broward County Public Schools announced a landmark collaboration with Microsoft to integrate AI into every corner of the district using the Copilot platform. The system assists educators in developing lesson plans and helps administrative departments improve efficiency.
Furthermore, on March 10, board members approved the purchase of an AI teaching program called Magic School, funded by a $1.2 million donation from philanthropists Wayne and Lucretia Weiner. That meeting was celebrated as "Broward Powered by AI Day," with attendees wearing purple commemorative shirts.
Addressing Privacy and Mental Health Concerns
The shift in policy follows increasing scrutiny of AI's impact on student learning and mental health. During a June 23 meeting, School Board member Adam Cervera requested a pause on the MagicSchool AI program to address issues regarding privacy, costs, and social effects. While that specific pause was deemed unnecessary due to summer closures, the board agreed to continue reviewing these matters.
Leonardi acknowledged the tension between innovation and caution. "I think we can be pioneers in the use of AI in education," she said. "And if we are going to do that and be successful, we have to be as careful and responsible as possible." The August 4 workshop is expected to address many of these lingering questions regarding AI policy.
