A Fresh Approach to Technology Use at Forest
Dear Forest Families,
We believe it’s time for a shift in how we approach technology and screen time in our learning environment. As we continue to prioritize deep, meaningful learning experiences, we recognize the need to refine our policies to ensure technology serves as a tool for growth—not a distraction.
Why now? Emerging research on mental health, including insights from sociologist Jonathan Haidt, highlights strong links between excessive screen time and rising anxiety, depression, and attention difficulties, particularly in adolescents. Many parents and caregivers are advocating for more balanced tech use to support focus, well-being, and in-person social interaction. Research confirms that unstructured or excessive device use can fragment attention and reduce deep learning, and our goal is to ensure that technology—including our adaptive AI-driven e-learning platforms—enhances rather than interrupts focus, retention, and critical thinking. With artificial intelligence evolving rapidly, we need to update and refine our guidelines, first established earlier this year, to ensure its responsible and ethical use at Forest. Above all, we want technology to amplify curiosity and creativity rather than detract from them, reinforcing our commitment to fun, deep, and meaningful learning.
With these priorities in mind, we’re implementing the following changes, effective immediately.
Spark Studio
In Session 5, our policy emphasized hands-on play, movement, and face-to-face interaction, with only select Spark heroes using technology for a small portion of the week. When devices were used, they supported the introduction of technology as a tool while balancing healthy screen-time habits. Select learners, chosen by Guides, used school-issued Chromebooks during Afternoon Core Skills for designated math, language, and reading platforms. Guides ensured technology was used intentionally and in alignment with personal and community goals. If a Sparker struggled with responsible device use, they lost computer access for the afternoon and instead engaged with studio materials. The ultimate goal was for learners to recognize technology as a means for creativity, problem-solving, and learning while establishing boundaries for screen use.
In Session 6, our policy will shift to intentional monitoring of morning goals, allowing learners to earn computer access in the afternoon. Learners must take responsibility by marking their morning work as complete before gaining access to technology later in the day. Additionally, each day will be designated for a specific platform, and all learners will work on the same platform until a new level is reached. Computers will be used only at designated tables, remaining in clear view of Guides.
The biggest change is the structured approach to platform use, ensuring that learners engage with all platforms equally over time. These adjustments empower learners by providing them with the tools and space to take ownership of their education. By setting personalized goals and engaging with technology in a more meaningful way, learners can take control of their learning journey and develop critical skills for the future.
Lower Elementary
In Session 5, device use and screen time were structured to support language and math practice, as well as structured research for group projects when needed. Chromebooks were used during designated platform and research times, with Guides ensuring technology aligned with the Lower Elementary Studio Contract and Hero Honor Code standards. If a hero struggled with responsible device use, they worked offline until they were ready to uphold studio expectations.
In Session 6, we will further restrict access to search engine use through Go Guardian. Heroes will now receive direct instruction on responsible computer and search engine use through a supervised research project. These changes are intended to help heroes learn how to use digital tools to support, rather than circumvent, their learning. We’re excited about this shift because it will help ensure that heroes develop wise search skills and build digital literacy in a safe and supervised environment.
Upper Elementary
In the Upper Elementary Studio, device use and screen time support platform work, research, and challenge submissions while balancing healthy screen-time habits. Learners may use school-issued Chromebooks for independent research, writing, math practice, and challenge submissions, with writing assignments alternating between handwritten and typed work. Clear restrictions are in place—social media and games are not permitted, and our firewall blocks most of these sites. If a learner violates these rules, a Guide intervenes immediately, and learners who repeatedly misuse technology may be placed in the "penalty box," further limiting their internet access. Repeated issues or parental concerns are referred to administration for next steps.
In Session 6, learners will continue using computers for challenges, including Guide-approved research sites, videos, and virtual interactives. However, brain breaks and lunch will now be tech-free, personal iPads and computers will not be allowed, and phones must remain in lockers. Certain sites will be blocked until needed and reblocked afterward, such as Canva. Learners who finish their goals early must verify their completion with a Guide before choosing from options like makeup challenges, reading/writing, or board and card games.
These changes are designed to address patterns of poor accountability in tech use. By shifting the approach, learners will view technology as a privilege, use their time to socialize with friends, and stay focused on their goals.
Middle School
In the Middle School Studio, technology is a tool for learning, not a distraction. It is structured to support Core Skills, Quest, Civilization, and Story Arts while promoting healthy screen-time habits and accountability. While school-issued Chromebooks and school-registered personal laptops or tablets are allowed during designated learning times, phones and entertainment apps are only permitted indoors during lunch.
To minimize distractions, we are implementing clear posted guidelines, regular tech conversations in Guide check-ins, feedback 360 prompts on responsible technology use, Council-supported accountability, and a two-strike policy for dishonesty around tech misuse. Off-task personal device use will result in device collection for the rest of the day, and repeated offenses may lead to parent contact. A hero-written tech agreement will be added to the Middle School Contract, requiring all heroes, including new students, to sign it. Additionally, we will introduce structured offline learning opportunities, such as board games, passion projects, and outdoor play, for early challenge finishers.
These changes will reduce distractions, increase accountability, and create a healthier balance between technology and offline learning. We’re excited to see more focused and engaged learners who use technology intentionally rather than as a source of distraction.
High School
In the High School Studio, device use and screen time are intentionally structured to support the development of core skills, research, and overall academic growth while promoting healthy screen-time habits. Heroes may use their personal laptops or issued Chromebooks during designated times for core skills practice, independent research, writing, and math exercises. However, social media, entertainment platforms, and non-educational YouTube use are not allowed during studio hours.
Guides play a key role in ensuring technology is used productively, supporting heroes in staying focused and developing responsible digital habits. If a hero struggles with responsible device use, the first step is a phone call home to discuss strategies for improvement. If the issue persists, the hero will be sent home for a reset day. Further violations require signing a provisional contract outlining clear expectations, and continued infractions signal a choice to leave The Forest School.
In Session 6, any hero who is behind on their badge plan after progress reports will have their phone confiscated for the day. This policy encourages focus, accountability, and effective time management. Additionally, we are implementing tech-free brain breaks to allow heroes to reset, recharge, and engage in movement, conversation, or other non-screen activities.
These updates ensure that technology remains a powerful tool for learning while encouraging balance, focus, and self-directed education. We are excited about these changes because they foster accountability, minimize distractions, and help heroes develop better time management skills, ensuring that technology supports their growth rather than hindering it.
We welcome any feedback!
Thank you for your support as we refine our approach to technology use at Forest. We believe these updates will create a more intentional, balanced, and productive learning environment for all.