A District 196 family & community initiative
We're parents, educators, and community members across Rosemount, Apple Valley, and Eagan working to reclaim our schools and learning environments from Big Tech's interests — for students, teens, and the next generation.
Mission & vision
We are parents, teachers, and community members working toward evidence-based, pedagogically purposeful use of technology in schools. We're a growing group across District 196 concerned about the unchecked expansion of screen-based technology into daily life — and we're working to restore real-world connection, reclaim our collective attention, and build stronger communities for the next generation.
We believe childhood is worth protecting, and so is learning. When classrooms are shaped by Big Tech interests rather than what actually helps kids learn and grow, both suffer. We believe tech can be a powerful tool when it's used with intention and purpose — and that intention has to come from educators and families, not from the companies selling the devices.
Real, lasting change happens where these three meet.
Where we stand
Take action
These are the highest-impact things you can do for District 196 students right now.
Tell District 196 you support responsible, evidence-based technology policy in our schools. Hosted with Four Norms.
Sign the petition →Add your name to call for away-all-day phone policies across District 196 — so kids can focus, engage, and thrive without a screen in their pocket.
Sign the petition →Share your perspective on screen time and technology use in Minnesota schools — your input helps shape statewide policy.
Take the survey →Call on District 196 to pause generative AI use in schools until it's been proven safe for students. Hosted with Four Norms.
Sign the campaign →Connect with us
Real-world connection starts with finding each other. Here's where the 196 Unplugged community gathers.
Join parents and caregivers organizing across Minnesota — share wins, ask questions, connect with others near you.
Join the chat →Follow MN Unplugged for updates, action alerts, and community moments.
@mn_unplugged →Like and follow MN Unplugged for news and discussion in your community.
MN Unplugged →Your voice matters
Every policy conversation gets stronger with real families behind it. Tell us how screens, schools, and childhood look from where you stand — your story may help shape what comes next for District 196.
Share your story →Research & resources
We're pro-evidence, not anti-tech. These are the resources we lean on most.
Our network
196 Unplugged is affiliated with MN Unplugged, a statewide movement of Minnesota parents and communities working to restore real-world connection and build a healthier relationship with technology.
MN Unplugged Organizing across Minnesota — visit mnunplugged.orgQuestions? Ideas?
We'd love to hear from you — whether you want to get involved, have a question, or just want to talk it through.
