LINCOLN COUNTY, Ky. (LEX 18) – Some parents in Lincoln Co. are pushing back against a new program being implemented in the local middle school.
It’s called “Summit Learning,” a program that’s backed by Facebook Founder Mark Zuckerberg. The program touts itself as a digital, personalized approach to teaching and learning, implementing technology in the classroom that claims will give students life skills and ability to use self-direction.
It’s also been the subject of controversies at school districts across the country, including one in Kansas featured by the Today Show.
Greg Snow’s daughter is in sixth grade at Lincoln County Middle School and is part of the Facebook group for the program which has more than 200 members.
“Of course all kids don’t learn the same way, and you know, there’s a lot of issues with this Summit. Whether it’s privacy. Whether it’s teacher interaction. You know, too much screen time,” said Snow.
He says many parents have filed appeals highlighting the lack of transparency on the platform.
“I could see the idea of using it as a tool. You know, a resource. But I don’t see using it as a teacher device,” says Snow.
Superintendent Michael Rowe released a statement on the decision to enroll in the Summit Learning program.
The decision to implement Summit Learning is a school council decision. As a district, it is our job to support the decision of the school council and school per KRS 160.345(2)(g)
“The school council shall determine which textbooks, instructional materials, and student support services shall be provided in the school.”
The Lincoln County Board of Education, Student Support Center staff, and I support the decision of the Lincoln County Middle School SBDM Council to implement Summit Learning schoolwide.
