For many Wellesley families, the role of technology in school begins earlier than they may realize. WPS's elementary schools use technology-based tools, computers, and tablets in K-5 classrooms across academic subjects.

WPS's current elementary school handbook describes technology as a tool for communication, research, problem solving, decision-making, creativity, and supporting students' understanding of curriculum concepts. A current family guide from Bates Elementary, meanwhile, describes WPS as supporting a 1:1 program for all K-5 students, with each student receiving an iPad to use at school and potentially bring home for school use with parent permission.

What that looks like in practice varies by grade, classroom, and teacher. We're interested in understanding how families experience this model and what parents think about the role of technology in their children's education.

WPS's elementary handbook states:

"In K-5 classrooms, technology-based tools, desktop and laptop computers, and tablets are integrated to enhance students' understanding of key curriculum concepts in all academic subject areas."

The handbook describes technology as a tool for communication, research, problem solving, decision-making, and creativity. It also states that responsible technology use is intended to help students develop basic computer skills as well as social, ethical, and human skills.

The handbook further states that students may not use artificial intelligence without their teacher's permission.