Forest Lake, High School Students Connect Over Digital Citizenship

Responsible technology use was the topic for an engaging panel discussion between students from Forest Lake Elementary School and Wantagh High School on Oct. 22.

Six juniors and seniors ventured to the elementary school that morning for a half-hour question and answer session. It coincided with Digital Citizenship Week and they spoke to fourth and fifth graders about using the internet in a safe, respectful and responsible way. 

Forest Lake student council moderators asked the six high schoolers several questions that were prepared in advance based on the curiosities of students. Topics included group chats, screen time and social media. The elementary students also asked for tips on enjoyable tech-free activities. 

Elementary guidance counselor Donna Shulman said that the six students were selected by their high school guidance counselors. She added that children often hear advice from the adults in their lives, but getting information from role model students at the high school can have a big impact. 

“Our goal is not to tell them that technology is bad or dangerous,” Ms. Shulman said, “but to have the high school students help them understand both the benefits and some of the challenges of technology, as well as finding a balance in their lives and knowing when it’s good to unplug.”