Digital Device Use in K to 5 Classrooms

In accordance with Tennessee law and MNPS Board policy 4.215, in-person, teacher-led instruction is the primary mode of instruction for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Digital tools complement strong elementary practices such as direct instruction, discussion, reading, writing, hands-on learning, movement, and collaboration.

When planning for technology use, elementary teachers consider whether the experience:

• Supports a clear instructional objective
• Connects directly to grade-level standards
• Is developmentally appropriate
• Adds meaningful value to the learning experience
• Encourages students to think, create, communicate, collaborate, or solve problems

High-quality digital resources are also be aligned with and approved for use alongside district curriculum. Teachers use resources that are included in the MNPS Approved Software Catalog and follow district expectations for instructional alignment, student data privacy, and appropriate use.

Technology Available in Elementary Classrooms

• District-issued laptops and tablets (every K-5 student is issued a device)
• Interactive classroom boards and displays for collaborative and interactive whole or small group learning experiences
• Virtual or augmented reality experiences like virtual field trips
• Digital content-creation tools like Canva or Lumi
• Assistive and accessibility technology like Audio Enhancement
• District-approved learning platforms (e.g., iReady, Lexia Core 5)

These tools may be used to support standards-aligned instruction, targeted practice and remediation, assessment, research, creativity, collaboration, coding, problem-solving, interactive demonstrations, simulations, and access to instructional materials.

Technology use will look different across grade levels, classrooms, and instructional activities. Not every lesson needs a device. Teachers use their professional judgment to determine when technology strengthens instruction and when another approach better supports student learning.

Digital Literacy in Elementary Instruction

Digital literacy is an important part of helping elementary students become thoughtful, responsible, and confident learners. Rather than being taught only as a separate topic, digital literacy should be embedded naturally within classroom instruction as students use technology to learn, create, research, communicate, and collaborate.

• Elementary students build age-appropriate digital literacy skills by learning to:
• Use digital tools safely and responsibly
• Protect personal information and understand the importance of privacy
• Evaluate information and begin to recognize reliable sources
• Make responsible choices when using digital content and resources
• Practice respectful and appropriate digital communication
• Understand that technology and digital information should be approached with curiosity and critical thinking
• Develop healthy habits and make thoughtful decisions about when and how to use technology