In this newsletter, you'll find:
A new article series about our research into how districts across the U.S. are navigating AI use in unique policy contexts
Two newly-launched navigator tools with insights on how district leaders are using evidence in EdTech adoption and core curriculum selection
Recently published research and news on techlash: the growing pushback against tech overuse in classrooms
Our Latest Releases
Article
How One Rural District Balances AI Mandates with Classroom Flexibility
It's hard to deny that AI is top of mind for many in the education space, becoming somewhat of a buzzword that demands attention in most decision-making conversations, whether administrative or instructional.
However, the buzz around AI as an all-encompassing label can often conceal a diverse, undefined landscape of tools, applications, and key issues. The district guidelines that shape day-to-day classroom practice depend heavily on state policy, community feedback, and educator input, and AI is no different.
Over three-quarters of school districts now have some AI guidelines in place, but how can districts offer structured direction while preserving educators' freedom in the classroom? In the first article of a three-part series on how schools are navigating AI in the classroom, based on the EdSignals Studio's most recent research, we look at how one Wisconsin district is striking that balance.
Dashboard
Introducing the EdTech and Core Curriculum Insights Navigators
Explore the data we’ve collected on how district leaders are thinking about evidence in the adoption of high-quality instructional materials. Our full suite, including new interactive dashboards focused on EdTech and core curriculum selection, is now live and ready to use.
View the Core Curriculum Dashboard
Insights from the Field
The growing techlash movement: striking the balance for EdTech
K-12 Dive | NYC schools face public pressure to pause AI use for 2 years
As AI and EdTech implementation rapidly evolves, many parents and caregivers are raising serious concerns about the amount of technology being used in classrooms, escalating a growing "techlash." In the United States' largest school system, public officials are facing calls to pause AI use altogether while district policy catches up to implementation.
Consortium for School Networking | U.S. State of EdTech 2026 Report
In this 2026 report, 64% of districts surveyed reported that their communities express "moderate to high levels of concern about the technology used for teaching and learning," even as around 85% of students and teachers report using AI for any purpose. Concerns and belief in AI's potential to positively impact education are often balanced; 74% of respondents see potential for productivity gains, while 75% also express concerns over cybersecurity.
EdSurge | Amid School Techlash, Accessibility Advocates Worry About Exclusion
Communities pushing back on excessive technology use in classrooms are citing real issues that need addressing: cybersecurity, mental health, and more. But are blanket restrictions, even bans, the right solution? Some caregivers and disability advocates worry that rushed legislation risks limiting access to assistive technologies for neurodiverse students,
EducationWeek | There's a New Pledge for Schools to Show They're Deliberate About Tech Use
Bans aren't the only way to meaningfully respond to tech concerns, and alternative strategies may do so while still exploring EdTech's potential to enrich education. One such approach is the Safe & Purposeful EdTech Pledge, just launched by ISTE and GreatSchools.org, which allows schools to publicly commit to several guiding principles while navigating tech implementation.
Do you have work you’d like to see featured in this section?
Contact us at info@thedecisionlab.com to share your suggestions.
Connecting the Field
Studio activities bringing the HQIM ecosystem into conversation
The Untapped Potential of Conferences to Drive HQIM Adoption
We sat down with leaders from Atlanta Public Schools, ISTE ASCD, Instructure, and CAST to explore the key disconnects currently defining educational conferences and highlight opportunities to bridge those critical gaps. Watch the recording and read key insights on our website.
Upcoming Events
Conferences | EdTech Week
The EdSignals Studio will be attending EdTech Week in New York City from October 14-15. Interested in connecting? Email Project Lead Maraki Kebede at maraki@thedecisionlab.com