U.S. Schools Overblock Internet, Harming Education and Access to Vital Information

Investigations reveal that school web filters block not only harmful content but also essential educational and health resources, raising concerns over equity and the right to information.

• School districts use web filters to comply with federal laws but often exceed necessary limits, blocking access to educational, health, and LGBTQ+ resources.
• Investigative reports find widespread overblocking, with filters preventing students from accessing websites necessary for assignments and personal safety.
• Filters impact students' ability to access information on topics like sex education, suicide prevention, and LGBTQ+ rights, with discrepancies based on district policies.
• Legal and educational experts express concerns about the implications of excessive web filtering on students' rights and educational quality.
• Efforts to challenge overzealous web filtering continue, with some districts facing legal and public pushback.

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