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NewsTimes of San DiegoAugust 10, 2026San Diego

San Diego Unified School District restricts video-streaming and gaming on student devices

Students are now prohibited from accessing video-streaming and gaming platforms on district-issued Chromebooks unless enabled by teachers. The district has also removed computer carts from transitional kindergarten classrooms as part of its new Learner-Centered Technology initiative.

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Read the full story at Times of San Diego

Why It Matters

Nearly 100,000 students and their families will experience restricted access to specific digital platforms and changes to classroom technology availability starting in the 2026-27 school year.

Key Facts

  • District-issued Chromebooks will block video-streaming platforms like YouTube unless enabled by teachers.
  • Non-instructional gaming platforms are now blocked on district devices.
  • Computer carts are being removed from transitional kindergarten classrooms.
  • Students with IEPs or 504 plans will continue to receive appropriate technology access.
  • The district is using the 'Blocksi' digital safety platform to filter content.
  • The district established four priorities: student wellness, literacy, mathematics, and college/career readiness.
  • The district exceeded its 2026-27 enrollment goal of 1,309 students by enrolling 3,033 new students in June and July.
  • The district serves 175 schools from preschool through grade 12.
  • Existing phone policies remain in place, restricting use during school hours based on bell schedules.

Who's Mentioned

organizationEducation Commission of the States“Provided national enrollment data.”personFabi Bagula“Superintendent of SDUSD.”organizationCalifornia Department of Education“Provided statewide enrollment data.”organizationSan Diego Unified School District“The school district implementing the new policies.”personSusan Barndollar“Executive director of nursing and wellness.”personShana Hazan“Trustee of the SDUSD school board.”personRichard Barrera“President of the San Diego Unified Board of Education.”