21st Century Scholars from Bethpage High School visited Central Boulevard
Elementary School to discuss the future with Mrs. Maria Falabella’s class. The third
graders had written essays expressing their predictions for the year 2050, which they read
for the high school students during the event. The two groups then shared thoughts and
ideas.
The essays covered the topics of school, technology, transportation, money,
holidays, energy sources, medicine, and more. Many children offered their thoughts on
how school will change; some believe that robots will teach classes one day, others
anticipate homework tracking devices, and several feel subject areas and class schedules
will be different. Assistant Superintendent for Instruction and Technology Mr. Terry
Clark shared his thought that classroom tables might one day be available in a form
similar to that of iPods, with large, electronic, touch-screens.
Cars were another popular topic throughout the conversation. The students
brainstormed alternative ways to fuel automobiles, such as using cooking oil or water,
that might help to reduce pollution. They also discussed ideas such as flying cars and
whether keys will even exist or if all functions will be done electronically.
Some students believe things will change as far as spending – many questioned
whether bills and coins will exist, or if credit cards will take precedence. They also
examined the way store merchandise may change as online shopping becomes more
widespread. The field of medicine was brought up as well, since it is constantly
advancing and changing to allow faster recoveries from injuries/illnesses.
The High School students discussed how things have changed since they were in
third grade, and many of the younger children were surprised to hear that less than 10
years ago, computers were not a staple in every household and CD players were used the
way mp3 players are today. Central Boulevard Elementary School Principal Mr. Steven
Furrey added some information about the history of Bethpage, explaining that the area
was once known as Central Park and before Bethpage High School was built, teens
attended Farmingdale High School.
As another exciting element to the visit, High School student Kevin Sackel, a member of
the Robotics Club, introduced a special “guest.” He unveiled a robot created by the club,
which is capable of driving forward, backward, and spinning on wheels via remote
control. This particular robot was created as part of a community service project and is
designed to help firefighters gauge the seriousness of a fire before entering a burning
building or room. The group explored the use of robots in modern society, how they
work, and what they might mean for the future.
Photos: Karina Stabile, Syntax Communication
1: Assistant Superintendent for Instruction & Technology Mr. Terrence Clark shares his
thoughts on future classroom technology with students.
2: Central Boulevard third grader Gabriella Chiappetta reads her essay about life in 2050.
3: Bethpage High School student Kevin Sackel demonstrates a robot created by the
Robotics Club. The robot was created as part of a community service project and is
designed to help firefighters gauge the seriousness of a fire before entering a burning
building or room.
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