While we are doing our best to stay healthy and compliant, there are things we can accomplish from the comfort of our homes to ensure future federal and state funding and representation decisions. The United States Census is not only beneficial, it is an obligation that greatly benefits us.
The Census, taken once every 10 years, asks us questions. The answers to those questions help the government know, for example, how many people live in a certain area. This determines funding for the entire next decade. Based on population and other factors, $675 billion dollars is allocated for infrastructure (roads and bridges), health care (first responders, Medicare, Medicaid, and hospitals), education (special education grants, security), funding against terrorism, and much more. Especially in times of crisis it is important for the government to know how many people live within a certain area so that needed resources are allocated properly.
In 2010, the US Census participation rate averaged 76%. The Sephardic community response rate was a mere 58%. Since 2010 we have been under-counted, underfunded, and underrepresented. We are not receiving the funds we deserve. Just like voter turnout numbers, politicians and others use this as an indicator of a community’s willingness to help themselves, to have a voice, and to show they are a force to be listened to. We hurt ourselves, our friends, neighbors, and community when we do not participate. The good news is that we can correct that now.
By now, most of us have been mailed 2020 Census forms. Responding is straightforward and not burdensome. It is less than 10 questions, takes less than 10 minutes to complete, and ensures 10 years of funding. There are a few easy ways to participate. You may fill in and mail the Census form sent to you, you may respond by phone (844) 330-2020, or you may participate online at www.2020Census.gov. Regardless of how you respond, your information is kept confidential and can only be used to produce statistics. The Census Bureau will never ask you for your social security number, money, donations, anything for a political party, bank or credit card numbers.
The SCF is always working for the community. We know that you trust us to advocate for you, and to inform you. We urge you to please accept this invitation to use this time to invest in our future.
Chief Rabbi of Morocco’s Heartrending Call: “We Must Keep Our Children!”
In a lecture broadcast to thousands of viewers worldwide, Rabbi Yoshiyahu Pinto delivers dire warning of assimilation * Economic crisis instigated by coronavirus pandemic endangers hundreds of children in Jewish schools across America * Rabbi Pinto’s urgent plea to school principals and administrators: “Have mercy on the children whose parents were impoverished by the crisis!” * Unable to meet steep tuition payments, dozens of parents have transferred their children to public schools * Spiritual calamity!
In the course of his popular lectures which are viewed worldwide by thousands, Chief Rabbi of Morocco and director of Shuva Yisrael Institutions Rabbi Yoshiyahu Pinto described the unfortunate state of Jewish education in the United States. “Without a doubt, schools are doing an excellent job, doing their utmost to fulfill their sacred mission. Yet to our grave misfortune…[education] has evolved into a business, which is perilous. Every day, we hear of families that have sunk to financially hard times, and their reaction is to transfer their children into public schools. This is a grave and tragic injustice…that leads to assimilation and scars the child’s soul irreparably.” Rabbi Pinto related that he was recently visited by a family who had abandoned Orthodox Judaism in her adolescence after her parents had been unable to meet monthly tuition fees. Left with no choice, they sent her to public school where, surrendering to spiritual and social challenges, she left the fold.
“Obviously, such tragedies occur only because the schools themselves struggle to remain financially afloat. It is thus our moral obligation to support [the schools] to ensure that under no circumstance will a Jewish child whose parents cannot afford tuition fees forfeit traditional Jewish education. This is a catastrophe that has potential to wreak spiritual devastation on future generations!” exhorted the rabbi.
The financial situation of many Jews in America and around the world is harsh. Large families specifically are beleaguered with steep mortgage payments and the high cost of living. The above is aggravated by costly private education which, for many, can reach a sum of tens of thousands of dollars annually. On a daily basis, Rabbi Pinto receives agonizing questions and requests from distressed couples who are in debt and unable to meet their monthly tuition payments. Dozens, and perhaps hundreds, have unfortunately chosen the seemingly easy way out by pulling their children out of their Orthodox institutions and transferring them to local public schools, where the devastating results are not long in coming.
“My point is neither to condemn nor to rebuke,” Rabbi Pinto expresses earnestly, “yet this anguished shout must be sounded and heard! Unfortunately, many in America’s Jewish community are suffering from the global economic crisis. Thousands have plummeted financially, while few have remained unaffected or even on solid financial footing. There are many people who, especially now, are living from hand to mouth, and the stress of paying tuition fees only serves to exacerbate a dangerous situation. There are parents who have surrendered and taken the drastic step of transferring their children to schools where their Judaism and faith will surely suffer. It is impossible to assess the spiritual calamity that can result from this.”
The rabbi continued that while no one is to blame for the status quo, school principals, rabbinical boards and administrators must appreciate that although they are surely right in stating that it is difficult for them to contend with the exorbitant costs of running a school, it is still their foremost responsibility and obligation to raise the next generation of Jews to be Jewish! He expressed that they must exercise their Jewish attribute of compassion, sympathize with Jewish parents who are currently unable to afford the prohibitive costs of education, and avoid transforming Jewish schools into schools of the privileged. It is untenable, he insisted, that parents who cannot afford school tuition should be compelled to send their children to public school, where not only the education, but also the environment, is free for all.
Rabbi Pinto likewise presaged that conditioning Jewish education to payment of tuition fees has potential to instigate a terrible chillul Hashem if word leaks to the media. “Principals and administrators must be vigilant and exercise caution, knowing when to put pressure and when to let up. They must seek to base their income more on donations and less on tuition… This is a very delicate issue which incites deep grievances, not to mention pressure on the children, which is both spiritually and emotionally unhealthy.”
Rabbi Pinto concluded with a heartfelt blessing and piece of sage counsel. “When one searches for new paths, the Holy One Blessed is He inevitably assists those who engage in sacred endeavors. Even when the channel of bounty is cut short in one area, He opens a larger channel of blessing elsewhere. Surely the sacred merits of raising beautiful Jewish generations who are faithful to G-d and His Torah shall safeguard all our principals and administrators!”
We closed our synagogue last Wednesday. There will be no more prayer services until the coronavirus goes away. In hindsight, it was an easy decision to make. But at the time, it was anything but.
I was part of multiple conference calls with other rabbis about whether or not synagogues should close. Many were extremely resistant to closing. Even those who closed their synagogues found it extremely painful to do so. This anguish is understandable. To close a synagogue feels like a betrayal of Jewish history. Jews have always taken pride in their resilience and determination in the face of a crisis. Even in the worst of times, Jews have surreptitiously gathered for prayers in hidden corners, quietly defying their persecutors. Just this past Rosh Hashanah, our synagogue used a remarkable shofar that was sounded in Auschwitz, and smuggled out during a death march. Even holding the shofar would have been a death sentence for anyone caught. Yet with enormous heroism and determination, these people held prayers in the shadow of death. And now here I am, a rabbi, canceling prayers and locking people out of the synagogue. What sort of rabbi does that?
Retreating into one’s home is not something we would ordinarily consider heroic. As one Internet comic put it: “Your grandparents were called to war. You are being called to sit on your couch. You can do this.” But today, there can be nothing holier than social distancing, because life comes first. We have closed our synagogue to protect the health of our members. But more than that, we have closed our synagogue to do our part in slowing the spread of this disease. Social distancing is not just a good prophylactic; it is an ethical imperative to help others.
In Halakhah, preserving life is the most important commandment. Maimonides writes that it is the leaders of the community who must be the first to violate Shabbat to save lives—and in the face of a danger to life, we treat Shabbat as an ordinary weekday. But the priority we give life in Halakhah is not simply a pragmatic concept; it is a profound Jewish value. We consider life to be sacred. Each morning, we read a prayer, that says: “My G-d, the soul that you placed within me is pure. You created it, You formed it, You breathed it into me, and You preserve it within me.”
Life is a gift from G-d, and it is absolutely sacred. And this is the reason why closing the synagogue is not just a concession to practicality, but an absolute imperative. And if closing a synagogue will protect life, we shall do so immediately. Some time in the future, we will return back to our shul. But I hope the lesson of this time remains with us as well: that there is nothing holier than embracing life.
The Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School (JBHS) Falcons recently turned the Barclays Center into a falcons’ nest, for the night! The girls and boys varsity basketball teams traveled across the borough to the Atlantic Avenue home of the NBA’s Brooklyn Nets, where they took on MYHSAL (the Metropolitan Yeshivah High School Athletic League) rival HAFTR (The Hebrew Academy of the Five Towns) Hawks.
As the Varsity Falcons were introduced, the stands behind the player’s benches began to fill with Flatbush supporters—classmates, parents and friends, sporting maroon and gold, ready to cheer for their favorite team.
It wasn’t long before the action was underway, and the players’ focus turned away from the unique surroundings to the challenge of facing their league opponents. Girls’ Basketball Head Coach Rozan Mizrahi-Loudon and Boys’ Basketball Head Coach Michael Gurock were exceptional on the sidelines, ensuring that every player was able to make a significant contribution on the court, and that the games were both competitive and entertaining.
Afterwards, fans and players reflected on the once-in-a-lifetime experience. Flatbush senior Isaac Sutton said, “To know that I am playing on the same court that Kyrie Irving plays on, is just awesome!”
“This was an amazing night! The show of support from the students in the stands was absolutely unbelievable. I hope this is something we will be able to do again in the future,” said a Falcon parent.
Special thanks to YoF Athletic Director Eric Amkraut and his staff, who worked closely with representatives of the Brooklyn Nets to make the event possible. It was a fantastic evening for each and every Falcon, and a highlight of the season, for students on the court and in the stands.
When a couple is blessed with a child, they think about all the fun they will have nurturing the baby and teaching the child everything they know. Sometimes the parents get a wake-up call that stops them in their tracks—the flu, a late milestone, or in some cases a diagnosis of something that most people have never heard of, or never knew existed.
Special needs is an umbrella term for a wide array of diagnoses, some resolve quickly, others are a challenge for life, some are relatively mild, others are more profound. The term special needs can include, but is not limited to developmental delays, medical conditions, genetic disorders, learning disabilities, autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, or a physical handicap. They all require special accommodations, so the children can reach their full potentials.
No matter the reason, the diagnosis is useful. It can help parents obtain the needed services, set appropriate goals, and gain an understanding of the child and the stresses the family may face. Often, a stressed child will find himself in a stressed home or school environment. True the stressful environment may have been caused by the child with special needs, but the end result is that the child finds himself having to deal with stressed out adults, which is the last thing he needs.
Special needs are commonly defined by what a child can’t do—milestones unmet, foods banned, activities avoided, or experiences denied. These hindrances can hit families hard and can make special needs seem like a tragedy. Some parents will always mourn their child’s lost potential and some conditions become more troubling with time. Other families may find their child’s challenges make triumphs sweeter, and that weaknesses are often accompanied by amazing strengths.
Special needs is a very broad term and every situation is unique. Families should focus on seeking the help and guidance needed for their particular concerns.
Parents, caregivers, and teachers are generally the first to realize that a problem exists. When you think about it, psychiatrists, therapists, neurologists, and physiatrists do not stand on street corners, and randomly pick children to evaluate. Rather, kids are sent to doctors because other people have noticed a problem. Those people, namely parents and teachers are the ones on the front line. When they notice there’s a difference—that’s when the parents seek the help of psychiatrists, neurologists, etc.
Developmental disabilities can change a parent’s visions of the future and provide immediate difficulties in caring for and educating the child. Diagnoses like autism, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities often cause children to be removed from mainstream settings and schools. Quite often, parents become fierce advocates to make sure their children receive the services, therapy, schooling, and inclusion they need and deserve.
Learning issues: children with learning disabilities like dyslexia, an auditory processing disorder (APD), struggle with schoolwork regardless of their intellectual abilities. They require specialized learning strategies to meet their potential and to avoid self-esteem problems and behavioral difficulties. Parents of learning-challenged kids need to be persistent. This includes working with the child at home, as well as with teachers and schools, to ensure they get all the help they need. They may want to remove the child from a mainstream school and put him in a school that specializes in this area.
Children with behavior issues may not respond to traditional discipline. A diagnosis of ADHD, dysfunction of sensory integration, autism, or Tourette syndrome require specialized strategies that are tailored to their specific needs. Behavior issues can increase the risk of problems at school. The parents need to be flexible, creative, and patient.
Children’s medical issues can include, but are not limited to, serious conditions like heart defects, muscular dystrophy, cystic fibrosis, and other genetic diagnoses. A child may need frequent medical testing, hospital stays, equipment, and accommodations for disabilities. Establishing a good support system is very important when dealing with the uncertainty of any medical crisis.
People will share what they feel is helpful. They will want to try and fix your child’s challenges for you. They may also share their absurd ideas. Take these ideas with a grain of salt, pondering the advice you think might prove useful. Although every child’s special needs are different, and every family is unique, there are some common concerns that link parents. These include getting appropriate care and promoting acceptance in the extended family, school, and community. For some, planning for an uncertain future may be necessary.
Parents might also find themselves adjusting routines and expectations. Sometimes, quite often out of necessity, parents of children with special needs may be more flexible, compassionate, stubborn, and resilient than other parents.
While it may not be something parents had hoped for or expected, it is important for the child that the parents do their best. As parents, you will learn more about yourselves, once you take ownership of the process of dealing with the diagnosis. It is going to be quite a ride, but take comfort in the fact that you’re not alone. So, feel comfortable reaching out for support and as crazy as it sounds now, one day you might want to share your failures and successes to help others.
In life, approaching issues with realistic expectations will spare you from disappointment. While positivity and hopefulness are important, one should be prepared for any outcome. If the result is better than expected, then appreciate the happy surprise. If the result is not what you had hoped for, the proper perspective will help you accept the outcome and move forward. This healthy attitude will help you navigate your single years and actually enjoy them, whether you socialize, work with a matchmaker, or join a responsible social dating app.
You should think about the high hopes you have of meeting someone when going to a party, on an organized singles trip, or to a popular vacation destination. You must realize that a small percentage of people actually do connect, and that less than half of those connections result in marriage.
If you don’t meet someone, even though you were open, friendly and charming, don’t blame yourself. It simply wasn’t your time, and B”H (with G-d’s help) the right time will come when its supposed to. For some it takes one party or one date while for others it can take months or years.
Matchmaking and social apps share many qualities. They may lead to dating, but you may or may not get the results you envisioned. In fact, many more will experience disappointment than success. Some may not receive a single match, which they shouldn’t take personally, perhaps it wasn’t their destiny to meet in this fashion.
You never know where or how you will meet your love, therefore keep enjoying the journey and when the time is right you will be ready.
By now you may realize that matchmaking is not a service that can guarantee results. For some it will create opportunities, for others it will provide new choices, and for a few it will not do anything .
Here’s How You Can Make The Most of Your Matchmaking Experience
Make sure you meet personally with your matchmaker (MM) for a full interview so they get to know you and what you are looking for. It’s best to continue your communication with your MM periodically, as feelings and circumstances often change. Don’t be afraid to ask your MM questions! Anything from what you should wear, date ideas, advice or feedback. One of the greatest perks you receive from matchmaking is a go-between—someone who knows how to guide you in the right direction.
Matchmaking is not to be misconstrued as a dating service. The MM’s responsibility is not to get you out of the house or fill your date schedule. The match has to make sense on many levels. Some people call a MM for the first time and ask, “Do you have anyone for me?” The MM may answer them with a no. What they mean to communicate is that they don’t have a potential prospect for you at this particular time. They are continuously searching their database and meeting new singles thinking of you. Instant gratification does not apply here. It is the quality of the match, not the quantity or speed.
The MM will never force you to go on a date. You have the prerogative to say no. Please make sure that if you do say no, that it is for the right reason. Your friends’ disapproval does not count nor does the social media presence of the potential match. If there’s the slightest possibility that this suggestion can succeed, then there is nothing to lose. Sharing a quick cup of coffee or having a drink is a pleasant alternative to a full date. If the same name of a match continues to come up, there must be a reason. You owe it to each other to explore what other people see.
Focus on one person at a time. The MM cannot control what you do on your own, but she will certainly not arrange for you to meet two people at once. If you are given a match, It’s best if you don’t pursue anyone else at the same time.
Do not be dismayed if a suggestion is not one you expected. Perhaps another MM or individual implored your MM to consider their recommendation. The guideline for a MM is that she must propose realistic suggestions made for you and let you decide.
Following a date, where a connection is not made, it would be generous on your part to pay it forward and suggest someone else who would be a better match for that person.
MMs work with many single people, so it is important to communicate with them and check in often. It is no bother to them. Many singles get upset when they do not hear from the MM. Help them to help you! A periodic reminder or text goes a long way. It is a two way street.
Declining suggestions too often will lead a MM to think you are not serious and that your expectations are unrealistic.
Now, in the year 2020, the Children of Abraham are afraid in a way we have never been before in America. As Jews, we are under threat of violence as we walk down a city street, attend classes on college campuses, and even enter our synagogues to pray. American Jews are being physically attacked simply because they are Jewish, which is a blatant form of anti-Semitism.
However, it is often difficult to determine if verbal and written statements directed at Jews are also anti-Semitic. In other words, what is the difference between legitimate criticism of the Jewish State of Israel, and a flagrant attack on Jews in general?
Former Israeli Minister of Diaspora Affairs and noted author Natan Sharansky, was also a prisoner who spent nine years in Soviet jails as a result of anti-Semitism. During his tenure as Minister, Sharansky developed an easy test to determine the differences between honest criticism on Israel, and obvious anti-Semitism. He named it “The Three D’s of Anti-Semitism,” and it has been a useful tool for politicians, media, educators, and more.
Demonization
“Jews have too much power in business and finance.” This concept has been haunting the Jews for thousands of years. The question could be asked, why does the fact that someone is Jewish have anything to do with having power in business and finance? There are plenty of non-Jews that are very powerful in business and finance. Why aren’t they discriminated against for their religion? Another horrific statement, “Jews are the children of apes and pigs,” is actually mentioned in the Quran itself, it is quoted by every Muslim leader in Middle Eastern countries, and it has become integral in the teachings of Militant Islam. These concepts work to demonize the Jews. This is anti-Semitism.
Delegitimization
The BDS (Boycott, Divest, Sanctions against Israel) Movement by the Palestinians has tried to delegitimize the Jewish claim to nationhood in the State of Israel. Although Jews have been living on the land for over 3,000 years, the BDS Movement seeks to destroy Israel “from the river to the sea,” calling Israel (among other things) an “apartheid state” that is violating international law. Especially prevalent on college campuses, the BDS Movement uses Jewish hatred as a way to fundamentally deny Israel’s right to exist. This is anti-Semitism.
Double Standards
The United Nations is an intergovernmental organization responsible for maintaining international peace and developing friendly relations among nations. Yet, year after year, the UN Human Rights Council passes countless resolutions condemning the State of Israel. Since the creation of the Council in 2006, it has passed more resolutions condemning Israel—than on the rest of the world combined. Israel has been condemned for the way it has defended itself. Statistics show that the Israeli army has by far the lowest civilian casualty ratio of any country in the world. Even lower than the United States. So why is the UN applying a different standard to Israel and its right to defend itself? This double standard is also anti-Semitism.
Minister Sharansky’s Three D’s of Anti-Semitism has become a useful tool in the fight against Jew hatred by helping to make clear the differences between constructive criticism and absolute hate toward Jews and the people of Israel.
“Two basic desires of people are to belong, and to be free: and they have to go together, they have to strengthen one another,” Minister Sharansky said. By using the Three D’s, one can more easily find solutions in fighting Jewish hatred, instead of fanning its flames.
The technology sector offers record-level employment opportunities. Tech jobs in New York City are opening up at a pace four times as fast as overall private job growth. The obvious question begging to be asked is, Why don’t more women in our community pursue a career in technology?
There are three primary reasons, but they often can be softened to the point where they no longer appear as impediments.
Many people have misconceptions about technology or possess a narrow understanding of what technology careers exist. Contrary to common knowledge, tech is not limited to software development. Every industry now offers technology jobs because technology is erupting into every single industry. Furthermore, the skills you need today are different than what was needed for the previous fifty years. The next five or ten years will see increased tech skills as a prerequisite to entry as well as a requirement for advancement.
You can be a software developer, a cybersecurity specialist, a web designer, digital marketer, social media marketer, data scientist, systems analyst, and the list goes on. Every type of designer today must design using software. Nothing is done by hand. You may work in a corporate setting with a high powered job, or work for a smaller agency with more flexible hours. Propel discusses the reality of what these jobs entail so that each woman knows what kind of a commitment is necessary and whether or not it is something she chooses to pursue.
We’re here to help if you’re interested in a tech career, but you don’t know how to begin. If you would like to test the waters and see if the subject matter is for you, we may suggest resources that offer free courses. We can discuss the merits and shortcomings of online versus on-campus programs. It is possible that you did your own research and want to discuss your findings with us. Regardless of your area of curiosity, we will help you clarify choices and put together a step-by-step plan that makes sense for your life.
It seems unattainable, however we’ve proven that it’s not. PROPEL has placed three women into full-time tech careers: two as software developers and one as a project manager. Not one of them had considered entering technology as a career until they spoke with us. We supported them during their decision-making process because it is a big step.
When finding a job became challenging, we provided direction, as well. You have to work hard for an opportunity and when you get that opportunity you have to deliver. One of PROPEL’s graduates became pregnant with her second child during her studies. Her husband and family rallied to take care of her two-year-old, so she could power through the full-time, three-month coding boot camp. Having children definitely affected her choice of employers because she needed flexibility. Today, she is expecting her third child and continues to work for a small company that understands the realities of raising children. The point is, a career in tech is attainable if you really want it.
It’s true you can major in technology specialties while in college. These major subjects include, but are not limited to computer science and artificial intelligence, and other emerging areas of expertise. While this strategy does advance you faster, it is not necessary or possible for someone who has no intention of attending college, or for someone who has already graduated with a concentration in another field. The good news is that specialized programs can be completed in as little as three months (full-time) or as long as two years (part-time) by getting certified through continuing education programs.
As an example, opportunities to learn about software engineering are endless. There are free online courses that anyone can access. Khan Academy, Skillshare, edX, Alison, Audacity and Code Academy are just a sample of the schools that offer free learning. These are especially helpful if you want to try out the material before you commit to a more rigorous learning commitment.
New York City is emerging as the East Coast technology hub. It is anticipated that numerous jobs will be opening up in addition to the ones already available. New Jersey has its own tech hub that pulses with life as well.
Call PROPEL today to explore how you might take advantage of the best opportunities available.
If you are interested in a career, please reach out to PROPEL. We can help you fulfil your professional goal. Call (646)494-0822 or email info@thepropelnetwork.org.
Follow PROPEL on Instagram @PropelNetwork to find out information about upcoming programs and events.
The DSN Community Center recently put together a fantastic Toy Scavenger Hunt at a local Target store to benefit children whose families could not afford to buy toys this Hanukkah season. Forty fifth graders collected over $300 worth of toys to give out on Hanukkah, and they had a blast doing it!
The youth arrived to DSN at 6 pm, excited and ready to roll. First all the rules of the hunt were explained to them, then teams were randomly picked by DSN. They were ready to work together to set a perfect example of what teamwork is about. They were loaded onto their buses, and taken to Target a few miles away.
The hunt began at 7 pm. Each team of six players took a wagon and a packet of clues and began their journey. The clues, which led them to the toys, included riddles, such as “Red and orange, green and blue, shiny yellow purple too, all the colors that we know. Find a rainbow in a box and _ my Eggo.” Some kids were tricked into thinking we wanted Eggo waffles but others realized we meant Legos!
Some of the clues required them to be creative, with teams taking pictures in sunglasses, wearing cozy winter hats and even placing buckets on their heads! The creativity and fun they put into the night was captivating. Of course, DSN staff made sure that all teams respected store customers and staff.
Sandra Sutton, DSN board member and chairperson remarked, “My son had the best night! He loved being out late at Target and they all had a great time working together to find what they needed!”
Ruth Gindi, a DSN mother, commented on Instagram, “Best night!!!! Kids had so much fun!” Another mother, Jessica Esses, added, “They had the best time!!”
At the end of the hunt, they had carts full of awesome games and toys which DSN then purchased to donate to less fortunate children. Having fun while helping others, that’s what DSN is all about. It was a special night for everyone!q
How do we get our kids to put their phones down? It’s a good question, however are they the only ones that need to take a break from the Internet? The reality is that we are all attached to our devices. Our kids are not the only guilty parties. Social media, and other websites have become a way of life, and to many of us, even an addiction. While acknowledging that technology is our future and that it enhances our lives in so many ways, a healthy balance must be established.
Managing that fine line between too much usage and adequate/safe usage is what led a group of Magen David Yeshivah mothers—along with the PTA, faculty, and administration—to tackle this issue head on.
The students were overusing their devices, completely hooked on gaming, Instagram and Snapchat. The team decided that the time had come to take a community-wide stance. If we work together as a community, we can form healthy relationships with our devices and channel our tech use in a positive way.
And thus WeConnect was born. The tech awareness initiative officially launched on September 23rd with a special program for parents and students in grades 6 to 8. There was not an empty seat in the room—it was clear that this was important to everyone.
Famed psychologist and Ted Talk speaker Adam Alter PhD began the program by explaining the dangers of technology overuse and how rapidly the usage statistics have changed. (TED Talks are influential videos from expert speakers on education, business, science, tech, and more.) He spoke of the strategic ways that large tech companies like Netflix and Instagram use to keep us hooked (think auto play, and infinite scroll).
They make it exceedingly difficult to prioritize our white space. (White space represents the part of our day that’s left after we’ve spent time working, sleeping, and eating.) Our white space is what defines us as people, it’s where creativity thrives, hobbies are developed, and individuality is formed. He went on to offer tips and tools to help the audience develop a safer relationship with technology. He mentioned setting time limits, keeping devices tucked away at mealtimes and charging our phones outside of the bedroom.
The presentation was eye-opening. Afterwards, the WeConnect committee, led by Vicky Bawabeh, Shirley Feldman, and faculty advisor Helene Palacci, felt it critical to put these steps and tools to use right away with a parent-child workshop led by trained Magen David teachers. The goal was not only to help students become aware of their device use, but also to motivate them to come up with their own ideas to help strike the perfect balance.
The students clearly understood that both their family and their school would support them in this mission, and were eager to take the next steps. Magen David, in collaboration with SAFE, has already implemented WeConnect programming into the children’s curriculum, and the response has been phenomenal. The children are taking initiative, and motivating each other to disconnect more often.
The WeConnect team is currently working on new student-driven programming, and is already seeing some impressive first steps towards tackling this ever present challenge.
