What is PA Unplugged?

A hub for collective action

PA Unplugged brings together local efforts across Pennsylvania into one unified space. While local initiatives should continue to grow and thrive, PA Unplugged provides the infrastructure to connect them — amplifying impact, supporting coordination, and showing legislators that this is a growing movement across PA.

A unified voice for policy change

Our legislative team meets regularly with lawmakers to advocate for distraction-free schools and stronger online safety standards for kids. The Unplugged Commitment shows policymakers that families are already making changes at home, and that they’re ready to see those changes reflected in policies and laws.

A source of support

We curate and share trusted tools, research, and educational resources to strengthen existing local efforts and help support new ones. Cultural change starts with awareness. We’re here to equip parents, educators, and advocates with the information they need to take action in their own communities.

A cultural shift does not happen in a silo. We recognize that parents & caregivers, educators, and community members must work together to effect change.

That is why PA Unplugged’s advocacy efforts span across our homes, schools, and communities.

We partner with national experts and nonprofit organizations, including Distraction-Free Schools Policy Project and Smartphone Free Childhood US.

Our state coalition is made up of local grassroots efforts across Pennsylvania.

We believe:

- Technology can be a powerful tool when used intentionally and with purpose

- Childhood is being stolen by screen time

- Kids thrive through real-world play and face-to-face connection

- The longer we wait to give children devices, the healthier they will be

- Schools should be places to learn, not marketplaces for tech companies

- Teachers shouldn't have to play phone police, and students deserve classrooms free from distractions

We advocate for:

- Phone-free schools, bell to bell

- Schools that prioritize children’s well-being over Big Tech interests

- More free-play and independence for kids

- Collective action to delay smartphones and social media

- Low-tech childhoods and teen years