CEO Keith Krueger Underscores the Importance of Balanced, Locally Driven Digital Learning Policies
Washington, D.C. (December 10, 2025) — At the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) listening session today, CoSN CEO Keith Krueger highlighted the essential role that technology plays in supporting effective, future-ready learning for K-12 students.
CoSN appreciates NTIA’s decision to host this session and welcomes the opportunity to build on the insights we contributed to the NTIA Online Health and Safety Task Force in 2023 and 2024.
Families are rightly concerned about distraction, overexposure, and misuse of devices, and we agree that these concerns must be taken seriously and addressed thoughtfully.
As a national association representing thousands of school districts and millions of K–12 students, CoSN brings real-world perspectives about how technology is deployed, managed, and used for learning.
Our 2025 Screens in Balance report underscores that “screen time” is not a single category. Educational screen time — built around curriculum and governed by district policies — is fundamentally different from unsupervised or recreational online activity.
When these categories are conflated, we lose the nuance required for good policymaking and a clear understanding of what’s happening inside classrooms.
Teachers rely on digital tools to differentiate instruction, assess learning, and support accessibility. Because districts vary widely in resources and student needs, decisions about device rules, screen-time expectations, and instructional technology should be made locally by educators, school leaders, and parents — not one-size-fits-all mandates.
Digital literacy is now a foundational competency. Employers expect students to be fluent with digital collaboration tools, data literacy, and increasingly, AI — which is also a priority for the Trump Administration. Schools cannot prepare students for this reality without high-capacity, secure broadband and connected devices.
Across the country, districts are demonstrating balanced technology use. Digital tools are used when they enhance learning, and non-digital methods are used when those are more effective. Strong professional development and clear communication with families reinforce purposeful use and healthy habits.
Ultimately, investing in broadband and classroom technology is about investing in opportunity. With thoughtful local guardrails, technology becomes a bridge, not a barrier. CoSN looks forward to partnering with NTIA to support effective, responsible, locally driven digital learning.
Hear more from Keith here.
About CoSN
CoSN, the world-class professional association for K-12 EdTech leaders, stands at the forefront of education innovation. We are driven by a mission to equip current and aspiring K-12 education technology leaders, their teams, and school districts with the community, knowledge, and professional development they need to cultivate engaging learning environments. Our vision is rooted in a future where every learner reaches their unique potential, guided by our community. CoSN represents over 13 million students and continues to grow as a powerful and influential voice in K-12 education. www.cosn.org
