Schools are navigating increasing concerns about student screen time while also recognizing the essential role technology plays in learning. This session explores research-based guidance for creating balanced, developmentally appropriate screen use practices that support student achievement, focus, well-being, and self-regulation. Participants will examine strategies for active vs. passive screen use, grade-band expectations, and practical approaches for building consistent schoolwide expectations that prepare students for a digitally connected world.
Dr. Ashley McBride is the Digital Learning Initiative Section Chief for the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. Her role is to support PSUs and schools with their understanding and implementation of the North Carolina Digital Learning Plan. You can reach out to Ashley... Read More →
This session explores student-focused micro-credential pathways designed to build digital literacy, online safety, AI literacy, and social-emotional wellness skills aligned to North Carolina House Bill 959. Participants will examine how students develop and demonstrate skills related to responsible social media and AI use, misinformation detection, personal security, ethical technology use, digital citizenship, and healthy online behavior through developmentally appropriate learning experiences.
Dr. Ashley McBride is the Digital Learning Initiative Section Chief for the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. Her role is to support PSUs and schools with their understanding and implementation of the North Carolina Digital Learning Plan. You can reach out to Ashley... Read More →
Tuesday July 21, 2026 10:00am - 10:55am EDT Room 35
What does digital accessibility mean for the everyday work of the school system staff? This practical session will provide a plain-language overview of the ADA Title II digital accessibility rule, the WCAG 2.1 AA standards, and common barriers found in school-created digital content. Participants will examine examples from Google Docs, Slides, Forms, links, images, videos, PDFs, and shared resources, then use a simple checklist to identify what should be improved before content is posted or shared. Participants will leave with practical accessibility habits they can begin using immediately in their districts.
What does digital accessibility mean for the everyday work of the school system staff? This practical session will provide a plain-language overview of the ADA Title II digital accessibility rule, the WCAG 2.1 AA standards, and common barriers found in school-created digital content. Participants will examine examples from Google Docs, Slides, Forms, links, images, videos, PDFs, and shared resources, then use a simple checklist to identify what should be improved before content is posted or shared. Participants will leave with practical accessibility habits they can begin using immediately in their districts.
