San Ramon Valley Unified School District - Technology Use in Classrooms

Technology Use in Classrooms

Age-Appropriate, Developmentally Responsive, and Focused on Deep Learning

Our Belief

Technology is an important tool in preparing students for a rapidly evolving world. In SRVUSD, we are committed to using technology - including emerging tools such as artificial intelligence (AI) - to enhance deep learning, expand student opportunities, and support engagement, while ensuring that its use is always:

Age-specific and developmentally appropriate
Guided by educators
Grounded in strong instructional practices and human connection

We believe technology should amplify learning - not replace it.

Why Developmentally Appropriate Use Matters

Students develop cognitively, socially, and emotionally at different stages. As a result, the role of technology must evolve across grade levels.

Our approach ensures that:

Younger students build foundational skills and human interaction first
Older students develop the ability to use technology critically, responsibly, and independently
All students maintain ownership of their thinking, creativity, and voice

What This Looks Like in SRVUSD Classrooms

Early Elementary (TK-2): Foundations First

Emphasis on literacy, numeracy, oral language, and social development
Technology is primarily used by teachers to:

Support instruction
Differentiate learning

Student use is limited, structured, and highly guided

Upper Elementary (3-5): Guided Introduction

Students begin to interact with technology in intentional and supported ways
Focus on:

Asking questions
Evaluating information

Technology supports - not replaces - core skill development

Middle School (6-8): Building Critical Users

Increased opportunities for independent and collaborative use
Students learn to:

Analyze information for accuracy and bias
Use tools to support research and learning

Continued emphasis on critical thinking, responsible use

High School (9-12): Strategic and Responsible Use

Students use technology to:

Research, analyze, and create
Engage in real-world, project-based learning

Focus on:

Academic integrity and authorship
Knowing when to use - and when not to use - technology
Preparing for college, careers, and an AI-enabled future

What We Have Already Implemented

Aligned to our vision for Deep Learning and Innovation, SRVUSD has:

Integrated digital tools that support personalized and differentiated learning
Expanded opportunities for student voice, collaboration, and real-world application
Begun building AI awareness and responsible use practices
Provided ongoing professional learning to ensure technology use is:
- Instructionally sound
- Safe and compliant
Maintained a strong focus on foundational skills, especially in literacy

Where We Are Headed

As part of our commitment to preparing students for the future, we are:

Expanding AI literacy for both students and staff
Developing clear, consistent expectations for technology use across grade levels
Continuing to align technology use with Deep Learning outcomes
Ensuring all tools meet data privacy, safety, and ethical standards
Supporting teachers through ongoing professional learning and collaboration