On April 22, Rye Country Day’s Digital Responsibility Committee hosted a student panel with six Upper School students to discuss the impacts technology has on their generation.

Topics of discussion covered all types of technology, from smartphone and social media usage to online gaming, and when artificial intelligence has proven to be helpful, and when it has become a hindrance in both academics and day-to-day life. The participants also shared ways they can use social media positively and set healthy boundaries.

Moderated by Dr. Daren Khairule, Director of Academic Technology and Chair of the AI Research Team, and open to all RCDS community members, the panel was a valuable way for students and parents to continue to have discussions as the world continues to adapt and change how we use technology. 

DRC Panelists: 

• Julia Burgess ’27
• Camila Reyna ’27
• Ella Schwalbe ’27
• Jacob Tucznio ’27
• Yana Thukral ’26
• Peter Valenton ’27

Moderated by Dr. Daren Khairule, Director of Academic Technology and Chair of the AI Research Team 

DRC Committee Chairs:

• Katelin Berkowitz P’34, P’36
• Lynelle Chang P’30, P’34, P’36
• Nanki Holm P’38, P’36
• Jen Mellet P’33
• Hayley Nivelle P’34, P’36

"I was so impressed with the knowledge, experience, and candor that the student panelists brought to the evening. They spoke with clarity about how excessive exposure to screens, social media, and unmanaged AI use can take a toll on social and mental wellness, interpersonal relationships, and cognitive learning. That kind of self-awareness is exactly what we are working to cultivate through RCDS's Academic Technology programming. We are excited to share more about our 2026–27 events soon and a huge thank you to our incredible PA Digital Responsibility Committee for making this happen."
— Daren Khairule, Director of Academic Technology, Rye Country Day School