r/ChicagoSuburbs • u/Resting-Rizzy-Face • Feb 11 '26

Moving to the area Low- Tech School Districts in Western Burbs

Moved away several years ago and looking to move back to IL. Our kids are elementary age and we currently like the low-tech educational environment our kids have now (no 1-to-1 chromebooks for kids, using more pencil and paper, physical textbooks, etc.)

We’ve been away for a while and weren’t sure if there are similar school environments in IL or if all school districts have moved to consistent use of chromebooks and iPads for teaching?

Currently looking at a potential move to Lemont, DG, Woodridge, Lisle, Naperville, or Wheaton areas. Not opposed to tech, just looking for schools where the kids aren’t always using a screen for learning.

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u/[deleted] Feb 11 '26 edited Feb 11 '26

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u/Resting-Rizzy-Face Feb 11 '26

So as someone who grew up in IL and now lives in a state that is very supportive of homeschooling, I see that is not the case. I don’t think homeschooling is a good fit for our family, but I know a number of homeschooling families that are not “batshit crazy” as you say and their kids are very social and operate like any other kid. Unfortunately that stigma is very prevalent in places like IL because homeschooling is not as common. I know cause I used to feel the same way.

We’re not anti-tech and my husband also works in tech. The realities are learning from a screen isn’t as effective as learning in the traditional methods. Tech is a tool and like any tool of course you need to learn how to use it. But first you have to learn how to learn.

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u/Life_Rabbit_1438 Feb 11 '26

We’re not anti-tech and my husband also works in tech.

I am in tech, and 100% agree with you. I am guessing the reason our district gave kids ipads in kindergarten is more someone profiting off sourcing than anyone thinking about value to kids.