September 2026
As the July 1, 2027, compliance deadline for HB 273 and Board Rule R277-334 approaches, parents are seeking clarity on how technology will be managed in your buildings. To support this transition, here are actionable strategies and specific language you can include in your parent communications to inform families about upcoming changes.
1. Announce Open Meetings for Policy Input On December 1, 2026, the Utah State Board of Education will release model frameworks for AI and grade-level computer use. If your LEA chooses to write local policies, you must hold open meetings to provide an opportunity for public input.
Suggested Language: “On December 1, the state will release model technology frameworks. As we prepare for full compliance by July 1, 2027, we are holding an open meeting to gather public input on our local draft policy. We value your partnership in ensuring our technology use is balanced with teacher-led, print-based methods.”
2. Distribute Digital Tool Disclosures Schools are required to publish classroom disclosures of all digital tools. Sending this inventory early demonstrates transparency and prepares parents for new oversight capabilities, such as activity monitoring and credentials access.
Suggested Language: “To increase transparency, we have published a classroom disclosure of all digital tools used at our school. We encourage you to review this disclosure and establish a family password at home to discuss digital boundaries with your children.”
3. Communicate the Tech-Difficulty Plan LEAs must set up a plan to identify and assist students with a consistent pattern of learning difficulty with technology-based instruction. Announcing this reassures parents that screen-time alternatives are available.
Suggested Language: “We are establishing our tech-difficulty resource plans. If your student experiences a consistent pattern of learning difficulty with technology-based instruction, our school will provide structured analog and printed alternatives. No medical diagnosis is required for this designation.”
These messaging strategies provide a strong foundation for transparent communication with your school community. I would love to hear how these templates are working in your buildings.
Hit reply and let me know: Where are you experiencing friction points in your implementation process, and what additional resources do you need right now?
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