RA|LP Technology - Ridgefield Academy

Founded on Research, Grounded in Education

At Ridgefield Academy and Landmark Preschool, the mission of Information Technology is to support joyful learning, intellectual excellence, and a culture of kindness through thoughtful, innovative, and equitable use of technology.

We design and sustain technology systems that are reliable, secure, and developmentally appropriate, empowering students and educators to explore, create, collaborate, and think critically. At Ridgefield Academy | Landmark Preschool, technology is a tool that inspires and amplifies curiosity and student agency, and nurtures each child’s authentic self.

Guided by our commitments to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, we ensure that access to technology, digital learning experiences, and online environments is inclusive, safe, and reflective of the diverse world our students will shape. We prepare students to be active participants in navigating a rapidly changing digital landscape with agility, integrity, empathy, and responsibility.

Through innovation that is grounded in purpose, we cultivate confident, ethical digital citizens who use technology to lead with ingenuity and contribute meaningfully to their communities, locally and globally.

A Developmental Approach to Technology: Learning, Balance, and Well-Being

Digital Well-Being

At Ridgefield Academy and Landmark Preschool, our goal is not simply for students to use technology, but to develop the skills, habits, and judgment to use it thoughtfully and responsibly over time. We believe technology should support learning, not replace it, and should always be used with intention and care.

We are not a “no-tech” school, nor are we “tech-forward for its own sake.” We are a school that values intentional use—where technology is thoughtfully integrated to enhance learning and support student well-being.

Three Core Principles

Our approach to technology is grounded in three core principles that shape decisions across every classroom and grade level. These principles (noted below) help ensure that technology is used thoughtfully, developmentally, and in ways that support both learning and well-being.

Purposeful: We use technology when it enhances learning, not as a default or substitute.
Developmental: What we use and how we use it vary with age and readiness.

Balanced: We prioritize hands-on learning, relationships, play, and real-world experiences.

Active vs. Passive Screen Time

Not all screen time is the same. What children are doing matters more than how long they are doing it.

Passive screen time typically involves consuming content with minimal interaction—often driven by fast rewards, quick feedback, and low cognitive demand. In contrast, active screen time engages students in creating, problem-solving, collaborating, and communicating, requiring deeper thinking and meaningful participation. At RA|LP, we prioritize active uses of technology—experiences that support learning, spark curiosity, and encourage students to think, create, and connect.

How Technology Supports Learning
Technology is used with intention and purpose in our classrooms. Before integrating it into a lesson, teachers consider how it will meaningfully support learning. In most cases, technology is used when it serves at least two of the following purposes:

Connect Learning Beyond the Classroom: Does the technology allow students to engage with people, ideas, or resources outside of the classroom?
Document and Reflect on Learning: Does the technology help students capture, reflect on, or track their learning process?
Create and Demonstrate Learning: Does the technology allow students to create meaningful artifacts that demonstrate their understanding?
Investigate and Access Information: Does the technology help students research, analyze, and evaluate information?
Personalize and Elevate Learning: Does the technology adapt learning to student needs or enhance the learning experience?

Digital Literacy

We leverage national frameworks to support our program and approach to technology across the classrooms and learning experiences.

The International Standards for Technology Education [ISTE] and the Association of Technology Leaders in Independent Schools [ATLIS] guide our curriculum scope and sequence and our strategy on technology integration and overall development. We also leverage guidance and support from NAIS, NYSAIS, and CAIS, which are the National and local associations for independent schools and accreditation.

Across all divisions, students develop skills in these five areas:

Digital Foundations: Understanding how to use devices, managing files and logins, and building confidence in navigating technology.
Creation & Expression: Writing, designing, presenting ideas, using multimedia tools to communicate, and creating meaningful, original work.
Research & Information Literacy: Searching for information, evaluating sources for credibility and relevance, and synthesizing information responsibly.
Communication & Collaboration: Working with others using shared tools, communicating respectfully, and participating appropriately in digital communities.
Digital Citizenship & Well-Being: Understanding online safety and privacy, recognizing technology's impact on health, building a positive digital footprint, and developing habits for balanced use.

Technology Integration by Grade Level

Founded on Research, Grounded in Education

A Developmental Approach to Technology: Learning, Balance, and Well-Being

Digital Well-Being

Three Core Principles

Active vs. Passive Screen Time

Digital Literacy

Technology Integration by Grade Level

Additional Resources and Guidelines

Appropriate Use By Grade

Screen Time Guidelines

Presentations, Resources, Blogs