Conservative Activists and Teachers Unions Forge Unlikely Alliance on Classroom Technology
In a surprising political shift, Moms for Liberty, a conservative activist group that has frequently clashed with teachers unions, is now partnering with some of these same organizations on a shared objective: restricting the use of technology in public school classrooms. This collaboration marks a notable departure from years of hostility, as both sides rally around concerns over student screen time and its impacts.
From Hostility to Cooperation: A New Chapter in Education Debates
Since its establishment in 2021, Moms for Liberty has been vocal in its criticism of teachers unions, labeling them as an "education mafia" that parents "cannot trust." The group has blamed unions for pandemic-related school closures and accused educators providing LGBTQ-themed books of being "groomers." Additionally, they have characterized unions as "radical" entities that "don't care about kids" and "prioritize power over students," according to NBC News reports.
Despite this contentious history, both Moms for Liberty and teachers unions are now backing initiatives to curb students' screen time in schools. This alignment reflects a growing bipartisan concern over the effects of excessive technology use on young learners.
Iowa Bill Exemplifies Bipartisan Support
In Iowa, the state's teachers union is supporting a bill co-sponsored by a Republican lawmaker who also serves as a Moms for Liberty chapter leader. The proposed legislation would limit computer use for elementary school students and allow parents to opt their children out of device-based instruction.
Melissa Peterson, a lobbyist for the Iowa State Education Association, told NBC News, "We don't want to immediately tune someone out just because of our perceptions about their organization." She expressed openness to collaboration, welcoming Moms for Liberty to the table "if they want to use their powers for good."
Moms for Liberty leaders have responded positively. CEO Tina Descovich addressed teachers unions, saying, "Welcome to the fight," as reported by NBC News. While she continued to criticize national unions as "despicable," Descovich signaled support for cooperation at the state level, stating, "When they're willing to put parental rights of children first and defend parental rights, we will stand with them every time."
Growing Momentum Across States
The issue of education technology has garnered attention from parents across the political spectrum. From Los Angeles to the suburbs of Washington, D.C., groups of conservative and liberal parents are urging schools to reduce reliance on laptops and tablets. Their concerns center on behavior, attention spans, and exposure to inappropriate online content.
This push has led to a series of bipartisan proposals in state legislatures. Advocacy groups such as Defending Education and Utah Parents United have joined Moms for Liberty in supporting limits on classroom technology.
Corey DeAngelis, a research fellow at The Heritage Foundation, told NBC News, "It really cuts across partisan lines in a way that I haven't seen in a long time. A lot of other issues are clearly dividing people in a partisan way, but this one doesn't seem to." He added that this issue presents an opportunity for conservatives "to make inroads with people on the ground and everyday parents who might not have been as supportive of right-leaning groups in the past."
Mixed Responses from Teachers Unions
Teachers unions are not unified on the technology issue. National organizations, including the American Federation of Teachers, have generally supported classroom technology use, though some leaders acknowledge that limits may be necessary.
Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, told NBC News that the collaboration sends a broader message: "It shows that we're not enemies. It shows that we may have a difference on an issue or two, but at the end of the day, teachers, their unions and families really want the best for our kids."
At the state level, positions vary. For instance, the Kansas branch of the National Education Association has opposed legislation banning devices for younger students. In contrast, Missouri's union chapter supported a bill to study and set limits on school-issued technology.
In Iowa, after the state House passed the proposal, Moms for Liberty hailed it as "a bipartisan win for Iowa students," highlighting support from Democratic co-sponsor Rep. Heather Matson.
A Strategic Shift in Education Debates
Education researchers note that the focus on technology alters the nature of the debate. John Rogers, a professor at the University of California, Los Angeles, explained to NBC News that earlier disputes over books and curriculum often became personal, with teachers and librarians accused of political bias. In comparison, concerns about technology are directed more at systems and companies, framing the issue around student outcomes.
Common Ground with Limits
While this cooperation does not erase deeper disagreements over curriculum and education policy, it represents a significant alignment on screen time. Groups that have historically been at odds are now pushing in the same direction, advocating for limits they believe will enhance students' learning and well-being. This bipartisan effort underscores a shared commitment to addressing the challenges posed by technology in education, even as broader ideological divides persist.
