Dear Township of Union Families,
At the Township of Union Public Schools, we know that families want classrooms where children are actively engaged, learning with their teachers and classmates, and using technology thoughtfully. We share that goal. Our belief is that technology should enhance great teaching, not replace it. As we have continued to reflect on our students’ classroom experiences and what we know about effective elementary instruction, we have decided to make an important change to our K-5 Chromebook program.
Beginning September 2026, Chromebooks assigned to students in grades K-5 will remain at school and will no longer be sent home. Every student will continue to have an individually assigned Chromebook for use throughout the school day, and each classroom will be equipped with a secure charging cart where devices are stored, charged, and ready whenever instruction calls for them.
This decision reflects several years of classroom experience, teacher feedback, and conversations with families. Through that experience, we have seen several clear benefits to keeping elementary devices at school.
Technology used with purpose
We believe technology should have a clear instructional purpose. In our elementary classrooms, that often means providing immediate feedback through adaptive learning programs, supporting student creativity and collaboration, or helping teachers better understand student progress. Just as importantly, many of the most valuable learning experiences happen away from a screen: through discussion, hands-on exploration, reading physical books, writing, problem-solving, and working together. Our elementary teachers will continue to make thoughtful instructional decisions each day about when technology is the right tool and when other instructional approaches are the better choice.
Reliable access for every lesson
When Chromebooks remain at school, they are consistently charged, updated, and available whenever teachers need them. Whether students are participating in a reading fluency activity, completing an assessment, or collaborating on a classroom project, teachers can confidently plan knowing every student has a ready-to-use device.
Supporting healthy technology habits
Many families have shared that finding a healthy balance with technology at home is important. We recognize that every family approaches technology differently and we respect those differences. By keeping district-issued devices at school, we hope to support families by ensuring that our devices are primarily used for learning while giving parents greater flexibility over technology use at home.
