Story perspectives

Missouri Bill Aims to Curb Screen Time in Schools

2/7/2026

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Byrnes Proposes Screen Time Limit

Missouri State Rep. Tricia Byrnes proposes a bill to limit elementary students' screen time to 45 minutes daily.
The measure would require at least 70% of assignments to be handwritten and bar laptops from home.
Advocates warn the bill could harm special education by replacing hands-on instruction with digital methods.
A separate report notes U.S. schools struggle to provide adequate assistive technology for students with disabilities due to budget constraints.

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Teaching Assistant Defends Screens

A primary school teaching assistant states in a letter that screens are used purposefully in classrooms.
They enhance lessons by incorporating video clips and sounds, enabling efficient teaching.
The assistant highlights programs such as Voice 21, which promotes oracy, and Opal, which encourages outdoor play and child-initiated learning.
Despite issues in the education system, the assistant defends screens and staff dedication to children's education.

History

Historical Context

The Education Reform Act of 1975 established the right to a free and appropriate public education for children with disabilities, building on earlier civil rights movements that sought educational equity. Despite this progress, many schools, including those in Missouri, still face budget constraints, with 14% of students requiring special education services. Current proposals to limit screen time reflect ongoing debates about educational methods and technology's role in learning.

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Byrnes Proposes Screen Time Limit

Missouri State Rep. Tricia Byrnes proposes a bill to limit elementary students' screen time to 45 minutes daily.
The measure would require at least 70% of assignments to be handwritten and bar laptops from home.
Advocates warn the bill could harm special education by replacing hands-on instruction with digital methods.
A separate report notes U.S. schools struggle to provide adequate assistive technology for students with disabilities due to budget constraints.

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