Press Release
April 8, 2009
IAC Explores Generational Trend
On Wednesday, April 8, 2009 the InterAgency Council of Glen Cove held its monthly membership meeting at the Robert M. Finley Middle School. The meeting featured a guest appearance by Dr. Laurence Aronstein, Superintendent of Glen Cove Schools, who took the typical IAC forum into a slightly different format.
Dr. Aronstein led the group in a discussion about “Today’s Child” with the goal of exploring the many ways that our youth differ from other generations and what implications that has on our educational system and our economy. Rather than lecturing on his own findings, Dr. Aronstein was more interested in the perceptions of the IAC members, those in the human service industry who interact with all different age groups in a variety of ways. Each member had a unique insight about the defining characteristic that makes our youngest generation distinct, but all were united on a common theme – the increased use of technology and the consequences that it has on attention span, education, work ethic, drug use and abuse.
IAC members participated in a lively discussion about the characteristics of today’s child, from his adaptive nature, widespread use of technology to his independent minded personality. The group conversed about their ideas which have been formed from each member’s individual experience with our youth. Some members, such as the SAFE Agency, expressed concerns over the increased use and abuse of drugs and alcohol and other organizations, who deal more with the economic realm, observed that youth tend to lack concern over finances and debt. Those who interact with youngsters as volunteers or part time employees added that children have become so technologically savvy as to frequently surpass what schools are capable of offering. The group then discussed how this widespread increased reliance on technology has affected children and the way that they learn and work, including high adaptability, short attention span and need for instant gratification. These qualities in turn lead to individuals who may be more productive as workers, but who also may be more prone to substance abuse and deteriorating human relationships.
The result of this discussion was a realization that the generation of 14-24 year olds is one that differs in significant ways from preceding generations and new approaches must be developed in order to teach and raise these children effectively. As leaders in the human service arena, Dr. Aronstein recognized the importance of having this discussion with the InterAgency Council. With this awareness, each organization can create innovative ways to reach out to youth. Dr. Sharon Harris, President of the IAC concluded the meeting with thanks to Dr. Aronstein for leading this lively discussion and welcomed the next opportunity to continue this debate.
Representing the cultural, religious, and ethnic diversity of Glen Cove, the Inter Agency Council has met regularly to identify and address the changing needs of the community. This networking among social and human service community organizations has resulted in numerous projects and collaborations which continue to benefit the citizens of Glen Cove. The next InterAgency Council Meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 13, 2009 at the Marquis Care Center.