Stamford Public Schools will block students’ access to YouTube starting March 24, 2025, in response to finding that the majority of the students use the platform for non-educational purposes. After reviewing the videos students have been watching, the district found that only about 15% of the videos were classified as academic or instructional, while others were considered distractions or contained inappropriate content.

The decision was made as part of a broader initiative to improve the learning environment of students by decreasing the potential distractions and non-educational content. Although students will no longer be able to access YouTube directly, teachers will still be able to use the platform in order to embed YouTube videos into Google Classroom assignments, Google Slides, and other educational materials.

While the district acknowledges the value of YouTube videos, they stress that the platform’s design often leads students away from academic materials, which in return makes it harder to maintain focus on their learning. Teachers will be provided with instructions on how to incorporate YouTube videos into their lessons.

The district has emphasized that the change is intended to ensure the most effective use of technology. In an attempt to get some additional information, The Round Table reached out to Alec Iogman, Assistant Director of Technology Integration and Online Assessment at Stamford Public Schools; however, even after several emails, there was no response. As the new policy starts, both students and staff are adjusting to the changes and the district hopes that this will help to enrich the education system.

However, many students are upset by the change. Laeliah Bailey, a junior at Stamford High School, said, “I was very shocked when I heard this news. YouTube is such a valuable technological tool. It just really helped me out”. Bailey also mentioned that listening to relaxing music, like “Ocean Waves” by Joe Baker, helps her relax during school, which she now will not be able to do. Another junior at SHS, Rebecca Bear, said, “It’s really disappointing because, especially for math, I watch a lot of videos to learn the material. And I don’t think anyone is watching YouTube during school when we can’t have our phones. I think we’re all focused”. On the other hand, Stamford High math teacher William Casolo stated, “It’s a great idea to limit the access to any websites that might be a distraction such as YouTube, therefore students will be able to focus on their studies more”.