SDLA Quick Fix Idea
Restoring access to instructional apps I am using in my classroom
A practical, professional way to turn an unexpected technology block into a constructive review.
Teacher
My district suddenly blocked Pear Deck on district computers. I have used it successfully for years, pay for it myself, and have about 150 presentations built around it. How can I make the case for restoring access without putting myself at odds with the technology department?
Quick fix
Ask for a review, not a workaround. The block may be a filtering mistake, an authentication problem, or an intentional decision based on privacy, security, accessibility, purchasing, or curriculum requirements.
- Save the exact blocked URL, error message, date, device, and browser.
- Ask whether the block is technical or policy-based and whether the app has already been reviewed.
- Explain the instructional need and the effect on students—not just the personal cost of the subscription.
- Offer to complete the district's approved-app process and provide vendor privacy and security documentation.
- Ask whether a limited pilot or approved transition plan is possible while the review is completed.
Copy-and-paste email
Subject: Request for review of Pear Deck access
Hello [IT Director or Instructional Technology Team],
I recently discovered that Pear Deck is no longer accessible on district-managed devices. Could you please let me know whether this is a technical issue, a web-filter classification, or a district privacy or security decision?
I have used Pear Deck to support formative assessment, student participation, and immediate instructional feedback, and I have approximately 150 existing presentations built around this workflow. I understand that my individual subscription does not constitute district approval and that tools involving student accounts or responses may require formal review.
Would you please advise why the service is blocked, whether it has already been reviewed, and what information or form is needed to request reconsideration? If appropriate, I would also appreciate consideration of a limited pilot or an approved transition plan while the review is completed.
I am not seeking to circumvent district safeguards. I would simply appreciate an opportunity to document the instructional need and have the service evaluated through the proper process.
Thank you,
[Name, school, grade or department]
Keep in mind: Do not use personal hotspots, VPNs, alternate domains, or student personal accounts to bypass district controls. A productive outcome is a clear explanation, a fair review pathway, and an instructional transition plan if the answer remains no.