Western Wayne Schools is receiving positive community feedback for eliminating daily screen time for kindergarten and first graders.
On June 1, WWS officials announced an intentional technology shift away from a 1-to-1 student-to-device ratio for the 2026-2027 school year.
The statement noted that technology will remain a valuable resource and teachers can decide when a digital tool truly enhances a lesson. Devices will no longer be part of daily routines for Western Wayne Elementary’s youngest students.
When the announcement was shared on the district’s Facebook page, reactions were positive and commenters applauded what they said was a common-sense change. Some expressed hope that device use would eventually be reduced for older students as well.
“We need to reshape our approach to help students feel confident connecting with the world around them,” WWES Principal Elizabeth Miller said in the statement. “It is my hope that more schools follow suit.”
When announcing the decision, WWS officials cited research that supports minimizing daily screen time in favor of hands-on learning during early years of rapid brain development.
They said limiting technology can help with attention span, social interactions and language development.
Research shows vocabulary growth and literacy thrive on active back-and-forth verbal communication in a conversational classroom environment, WWS’ announcement said.
In addition, navigating peer dynamics, practicing eye contact and reading facial expressions in real time are crucial for building emotional intelligence. They also believe reducing device use helps children cultivate patience and build longer, more sustainable focus.
WWS officials called the change “a purposeful step forward into a balanced learning environment.”
“By investing heavily in human connection and creative, focused instruction, we are protecting your child’s well-being while strengthening their academic foundation,” the statement said.
On May 15, nearby Fayette County School Corp. announced it was moving away from 1:1 technology for kindergarten and first grade.
In the Connersville-based district’s announcement, Superintendent Jeremy Duncan said that children only get one childhood, and strong relationships, hands-on learning and the presence of an exceptional teacher are some of the most powerful influences in a child’s life.
“We want our youngest learners spending more time talking, creating, exploring, building relationships and learning directly from caring adults, not through screens,” Duncan said.
FCSC said it’s also exploring screen time guidelines and best practices for older elementary students to ensure technology use remains balanced, purposeful and developmentally appropriate.
Those with questions can email elizabeth.miller@wwayne.k12.in.us or call 765-478-3622.
A version of this article appeared in the June 10 2026 print edition of the Western Wayne News.