A generation raised by TikTok dances, Snapchat group chats, Netflix binges, and doom scrolling on Instagram, it is  impossible to ignore the marks Generation Z has left, especially in social settings. But now it is time to flip to a new chapter; the class of 2029 marks the final group to carry the Gen Z identity. With the introduction of Gen Alpha, a generation exposed to technology from a young age, which ultimately speeds up their childhood, it is no surprise to find new hurdles that teachers and staff might have to overcome. 

“That technology is likely to become a much bigger thing, and writing on paper is not the primary method,”  junior de Leon, Jose Uriel said. 

  Gen Alpha has grown up with the vast advancement of technology; consequently, many of them are accustomed to using laptops or phones for numerous assignments. Even with the current use of Chromebooks in classrooms, small assignments done on paper might change. 

There’s probably going to be some drawbacks to that, and teachers may have a tougher time, like some kids who do not have Internet and stuff, or some kids who do not  have that much access to technology,” Uriel said. 

Compared to Gen Z, alphas are characterized by hyperactive behavior, possibly due to their short attention span and constant availability to devices. Often leads to trouble paying attention in classes or doing homework.

“Most kids who are in elementary school feel like they’re going to be stubborn. They won’t be able to process things as well as previous generations have, because they’ve been exposed to newer things,” Uriel said. 

Similarly junior Oluwaseun Omonijo agress that Gen Alpha will cause a shift in the education realm.

“technologies that the older generations have not always used at a younger age as a result, they’re more familiar with certain aspects of life that some people may not be aware of,” junior  Omonijo said

Omonijo believes that students’ attitudes towards teachers and staff members might change due to the social norms many Gen Alpha students have been exposed to. For instance, early exposure to technology as a prominent part of life can lead to issues with respectful communication and the ability to engage in face-to-face interactions.

As new generations of students walk the halls of Tompkins High School, new changes and difficulties will arise; however, every generation also brings innovative ideas, culture, and tries to write its own legacy in some way. There’s no stopping what future generations will accomplish.