Owen J. Roberts School District is working to lower the risk of students getting into trouble with technology. As part of an ongoing effort to partner with families in raising safe digital citizens, Owen J. Roberts invites parents to attend a K-12 Technology Series. The series is not meant to create fear over topics such as privacy abuse, cyberbullying or texting, but rather to empower parents and guardians. The next session is titled Kids & Technology: Psychological Impacts and will be held on Thursday, January 21, 6:30 p.m. at Owen J. Roberts Middle School, 881 Ridge Road, Pottstown. “Our kids are developing alongside technology,” said school psychologist, Dr. Brian Schneider, who will be co-presenting. “Just as we do with driver education, we need to give digital learners the guidelines to navigate the digital highway safely,” he added.
There are many elements to a coordinated, proactive approach to responsible technology use. At Owen J. Roberts, digital citizenship is part of the curriculum. In addition, administrators, teachers, guidance, and support personnel are all active in helping students understand and commit to practices which safeguard against online victimization of all kinds. The district has been strategic in offering teacher training to increase technology comfort levels and to build awareness about online risks which have potential negative consequences for youth. Students are encouraged to speak openly with trusted adults about what they see online or anything which they may question. Developmentally-appropriate guidance and role play opportunities are provided to students in classrooms and through special presentations by technology experts. As students reach an age where they may be more independent online communicators, more interventions are provided.
“The education of all stakeholders must be pervasive, ongoing work,” offered Owen J. Roberts Technology Director Paul Sanfrancesco. Mr. Sanfrancesco does not believe in one-size-fits-all safety nets or solutions, but works diligently with all stakeholders to find options that fit. He was motivated to provide the parent series because he feels that parents need to commit to keeping current.
The district hopes that parents and guardians take advantage of the series. Upcoming sessions are on March 9 – Social Media Hands-on (facilitated by high school students) and May 16 – Student Tech Showcase.
Technology offers powerful tools which may enhance learning and life. Working together, parents and schools can cultivate a culture which supports safe use of those opportunities.
