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More than a screen: Why we put the human in technology

More than a screen: Why we put the human in technology

Ed Tech Specialist, Steven Lamb, chats ISDenver technology philosophy and the thoughtful and balanced approach that prepares children for a digital world without losing the uniquely human skills that matter most.

More than a screen: Why we put the human in technology
Steven Lamb, Education Technology Specialist
More than a screen: Why we put the human in technology

As a parent or guardian, you’ve likely asked yourself: 

  • How much screen time is too much? 
  • Is my child truly safe online? 
  • Will artificial intelligence really help my kid learn or just make it easier to cheat?

These are the same questions we ask ourselves every day at ISDenver. But here’s the difference: we don’t just use technology. We use it to strengthen what makes our students human. Their creativity, their critical thinking, and their connection to the world around them.

Technology is not the goal. Humanity is.

Mindful Tech in the Early Grades

In Preschool through Kindergarten, we embrace an “unplugged” philosophy. Unstructured play and hands-on discovery are essential for brain development. That’s why our youngest learners engage with technology in minimal, purposeful ways and never as passive consumers.

Take Beebots, for example. These programmable robots teach sequencing and coding through physical movement, not screens. Students collaborate, problem-solve, and build foundational tech skills all while staying grounded in tactile, joyful learning.

Screen Time with Purpose: K–12

As students grow, so does their capacity for meaningful tech use. But balance remains our guiding principle.

  • Kindergarten–2nd grade: Students use class-set Chromebooks for about an hour per day. Technology is a tool for creation and collaboration, not distraction.
  • 3rd grade: Students begin taking Chromebooks home. Teachers blend digital, paper, and hands-on methods to create a rich, balanced learning experience.
  • 4th grade and beyond: With increased independence comes increased partnership with you, the parents and caregivers.

A New Level of Partnership: GoGuardian

We believe digital well-being is a shared responsibility. That’s why we offer the GoGuardian Parent app for all take-home Chromebooks (grades 3–12). This tool empowers families to:

  • Monitor your child’s online activity
  • Block websites you find inappropriate
  • Pause internet access during tech-free times like dinner or bedtime

GoGuardian operates in School Mode and Parent Mode, giving parents control without burdening teachers with complex home setups. Parents set the rules that work for their household.

YouTube: Purposeful Access Only

For students in grades K–5, general access to YouTube is blocked. Teachers can selectively unblock videos for instructional use, ensuring content is always age-appropriate and aligned with our curriculum.

Demystifying AI: Your Child, the Expert

AI is everywhere. And, yes, it can be intimidating. But at ISDenver, we’re not afraid of it. We’re teaching students to be the experts of this powerful tool, not passive users.

This year, we’re expanding our “living AI” exercise. Students research a topic and become the class expert. Their peers then write prompts to query their knowledge just like they would with an AI. This teaches students to:

  • Understand bias in information
  • Question sources
  • Use AI for deeper thinking, not shortcuts

We want each child to thrive in a digital world without losing the uniquely human skills that matter most.

The “5 Cs” of Media Use

We align with the American Academy of Pediatrics’ framework for positive media use:

  • Child: Consider developmental needs
  • Content: Prioritize educational value
  • Calm: Avoid using screens to soothe emotions
  • Crowding Out: Don’t let tech replace play, sleep, or family time
  • Communication: Talk openly about media use

You can find more AAP recommendations here.

Technology is not just about devices. It’s about decisions. At ISDenver, we make those decisions with intention, compassion, and in close partnership with our families.

We can’t wait to see what each child creates, questions, and becomes this year.


Steven Lamb is a multiple award-winning educator, TED talker, and father who believes in making ludicrous brainstorming ideas into positive and impactful learning experiences. He was a classroom teacher for 13 years and joined ISDenver as a Technology Integrator. Steven and his wife Rachel travel the nation speaking on a variety of educational topics. He is the voice of our school’s E-News Podcast.

He has also written extensively on professional growth in educational technology integration; read his latest piece here.

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