Last week, RYNJ held a technology night for parents. The turnout was outstanding. Rabbi Price, RYNJ Head of School, kicked the night off with an introduction to the areas of technology we were going to explore for the evening. Then, the crowd was divided into three groups each able to explore a separate session and then rotate to the other two sessions. Like clockwork, the sessions began.

Rabbi Dov Hochbaum, one of our educational technologists, spoke about how and why to safely block and monitor Internet usage at home. The parents asked terrific questions and Rabbi Hochbaum’s presentation can be found at bit.ly/rynjtechnight. Rabbi Clair, the other educational technologist in the school, who has also been working with the middle school on blended learning, discussed all of the different types of technologies children might be exposed to– everything from Facebook to Twitter to Instagram and much more. His presentation can be found at bit.ly/parentsnightapps. Mrs. Jenni Levy, the Lower School General Studies Principal, presented about positive ways parents can productively allow their children to explore technology. She gave the parents over 60 sites and technologies that are great appropriate tools for students in grades Pre-K to 8. Her presentation can be found at bit.ly/koshertech.

The night was a big hit and we have already received many emails asking when the next one will be held. To find out more about all the amazing things happening at RYNJ in the field of technology, contact Rabbi Dov Hochbaum at:[email protected] or Rabbi Efrayim Clair at: [email protected].

By Rivkah Zauderer