• Upcoming Events

  • November 20: K-12

    Phone Smart

    Dr. Drew Patrick, SHS Panel at Scarsdale Middle School Auditorium

     

    Smartphones and social media are subjects on all parents’ minds in this technologically advancing world.  What age is ideal to give your child a phone?  How young is too young for social media?  How are kids using phones, and how can parents make sure they are using them safely? Does cell phone use cause kids to be more anxious?

     

    Come and hear directly from Scarsdale students about their experiences with phones and social media in our Phone Smart panel moderated by SHS English teacher, Jennifer Rosenzweig, and Superintendent Drew Patrick. The panel will also include teachers, who will share reflections on the impact of smartphones on learning.

     

    The program will also include District technology leaders Jeannie Crowly and William Yang, who will provide an overview of our current practices and discuss upcoming parent programming. Finally, you will have the chance to speak with other parents on issues related to phone use and social media, including contemplating how Scarsdale might approach the proposed “bell-to-bell device ban in schools” being discussed by Governor Hochul.

     

    December 3: Geared to Grades 6-8 (But all are welcome) 12 PM On Zoom

    Parental Controls for SMS iPads for Middle School Families

    Jeannie Crowley and Jenn Cronk

    The middle school is excited to announce a program to allow families to utilize parental controls on school-issued iPads to limit screen time or website access. Join Jeannie Crowley, Director of Technology and Innovation, and Jennifer Cronk, Middle School Technology Teacher, to learn more about the program as well as important discussion items and questions to ask your children before implementing parental controls.  Register for this event here.

     

    January 2025: Grades 9-12 at the high school

    Understanding Generative Artificial Intelligence: 

    Join Meredith Dutra, Head Technology Teacher, and Stephen Mounkhall, English Teacher, as they share how SHS has been exploring Generative AI. The discussion will also invite parents to share how they are utilizing this technology at home, and it will offer suggestions for our community as we move forward together into the future.

     

    February 2025: Grades K-12

    Digital Executive Functioning (K-5 or K-8?)

    Joan Iorio, Learning Resource Center Teacher

    Join Ms. Iorio, Learning Specialist at Greenacres School, for an informative session focused on tips, strategies, and dispositions for developing Digital Executive Functioning skills in children. This session will explore how to effectively support children's growth in these essential skills both in the classroom and at home. This is an excellent opportunity for educators and parents alike to enhance their understanding of digital executive functioning and implement supportive practices to help children thrive in our increasingly digital world.

     

    Other Upcoming Events:

     

    Fireside Chat and Q&A with a Guest Speaker / Author for K-12 Families

    (Currently in the works! Stay Tuned!)

     

    Developing Media Literacy in Our Community for K-8 Families

     

    Technology teachers and librarians have been working together to help students develop media literacy skills, such as making informed media choices, assessing the reliability of information, and engaging in responsible authoring. They will share their skills, strategies, and insights on how to assist both adults and children in developing critical thinking skills related to online content.

     

    Balancing Screen Time: Quality over Quantity for K-5 Families

    Mr. Casal and Mr. Yang will discuss the complexities of screentime as a modern challenge. They will explore how different screen experiences vary in value, distinguishing between meaningful engagement and passive consumption. They will share practical strategies for setting limits, aiming to promote a balanced approach that prioritizes quality interactions over quantity, ultimately fostering a healthier digital environment.