Bill > LD2052

This bill directs the Maine Education Policy Research Institute to conduct a comprehensive study on the use of technology in classrooms across Maine, including schools that receive public funds and enroll a majority of publicly funded students. The study will involve developing and administering a survey to educators in all 16 counties to gather information on how much instructional time involves school-issued technology, the safeguards in place before introducing new technology (such as screen time limits and privacy settings), policies on gamification, artificial intelligence (AI), and free online tools, and how schools ensure compliance with these policies. The survey will also examine adherence to the Student Information Privacy Act, policies prohibiting AI in grading and evaluations, instances of students bypassing internet restrictions, and gather suggestions for state policies. Additionally, the institute will research best practices for safe instructional technology use from experts, considering studies on cognitive development and academic performance, and share this guidance with stakeholders. By December 1, 2026, the institute must submit a report with recommendations to the Department of Education and the Legislature's education committee, which can then propose legislation in 2027. Funding for this study will be included in the institute's 2026-27 cooperative project agreement.