Connected Parent Series

The Barrow County School System has partnered with the community to provide three, free informational sessions on important topics for families: digital citizenship, suicide prevention, and substance abuse. The Connected Parent Series is free and everyone is welcome to attend.

Each session will last between 60 to 90 minutes and have a distinct focus with speakers that are expects in their area. Please join us!

"Parenting to Connected Kids"

We are the first generation of parents to have to solve the screen time debate. We are the first generation of parents that have to model appropriate use. And we are the first generation of parents that have to navigate our children through the benefits and consequences of trying to build a personal brand while at the same time, leaving a digital footprint for all to see. So, how do we do this? Where can we go for help, support, and/or resources? 

Wimberly Center - 163 MLK Jr Dr, Winder, GA

Thursday, February 13, 2020 at 6pm

Instructional Technology Specialist at Kennesaw State University, Andy Boyle will share how to parent to connected kids in this digital age. His presentation will share best practices and strategies for monitoring your children's digital activities, protecting their personal information, and teaching them how to behave appropriately online. 

Thank you to Winder Rotary Club for sponsoring the coffee and dessert for this event! 

"Connection = Prevention"

Barrow County has one of the highest suicide rates in the state of Georgia. Two years ago, the Suicide Prevention Taskforce was created in Barrow County as a collaborative effort to focus on this serious community need. As part of an ongoing effort, the annual summit will provide an overview of the taskforce activities and current statistics. The event will talk about preventative measures, signs to look for, and support services that are available. 

River Hills Church - 416 Argonne Rd, Winder, GA

Thursday, March 12, 2020 at 6:30pm

"Connect the Dots"

Teenagers are in a stage in their lives when they are testing boundaries, establishing their own identity and learning more about the world beyond the watchful eyes of their parents. While changes in dress, entertainment and appearance may be normal, teens also may experiment with different substances and risky behaviors. While some teenagers may experiment and move on, others may become addicted to tobacco or illegal substances. By educating oneself, parents may be in a better position to recognize the signs and discourage substance abuse in their children. 

Northeast Georgia Medical Center Barrow is hosting a panel discussion to explore the many aspects of addiction. 

• Dr. Merrill Norton, Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Georgia, will focus on the Dangers of Vaping and addictive behaviors.
• Adam Raulerson from Northeast Georgia Medical Center Laurelwood will lead an exercise for how to have the conversation with your loved ones. 
• Dr. Matt Thompson of the Barrow County School System will share how vaping and other substances are impacting learning and our schools on a daily basis.
• Patricia Brooks from the Barrow County District Attorney's Office and Officer Tim Laturell from the Barrow County Sheriff's Office will be available to answer questions about the legal ramifications and consequences of substance abuse.

Northeast Georgia Medical Center Barrow (3rd floor) - 316 North Broad St., Winder, GA

Thursday, April 30, 2020 at 6:00pm