Empowering Critical Thinkers in the Age of Social Media and AI
Algorithms are engineered to bypass independent thought. AI makes it easier than ever to outsource it. RethinkOnline delivers hands-on workshops and programs that give schools, families, organizations, and faith communities the tools to fight back.
The Problem
Why RethinkOnline Exists
AI and social media algorithms, addictive app design, and constant connectivity are reshaping how we think, feel, and relate to one another. The effects are measurable — in mental health outcomes, civic discourse, and personal autonomy.
Yet most people don't have access to resources and tools to fight back. RethinkOnline exists because this gap has consequences — for how young people learn, vote, work, and make decisions for the rest of their lives.
- 33% of 8th graders scored below NAEP Basic in reading in 2024
- Only 20% of young people met all four ACT college readiness benchmarks in 2024
- 96% of high school students fail to question source credibility when financial conflicts of interest are present
- 69% of Fortune 500 companies cite critical thinking as their most essential workforce skill today
The Gap
As AI reshapes how we learn and consume information, most solutions optimize for efficiency. The missing counter-balance is cognitive autonomy — so young people think independently within AI-rich environments.
Our Response
RethinkOnline delivers workshops and programs that equip young people, educators, parents, and community leaders to push back — and reclaim their ability to think and decide for themselves.
Our Programs
Workshops & Trainings That Build Real Skills
We bring interactive, practical programs directly to schools, families, organizations, and faith communities — no prior expertise required.
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Workshops & Trainings
Hands-on sessions for young people, educators, parents, and professionals — teaching how to evaluate information, spot influence tactics, and think with greater clarity and confidence.
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School & Classroom Programs
Curriculum-aligned programs that help K–12 schools integrate critical thinking and media literacy into everyday learning — without adding burden to educators.
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Community & Family Programs
Support for families, organizations, and faith communities navigating the challenges of raising and working with young people in the digital age.
Our programs help people:
- Identify misinformation, bias, and influence tactics in everyday digital content
- Build self-awareness about how social media and AI shape their thinking
- Develop stronger reasoning skills for school, work, and daily life
- Create home and classroom environments that foster reflection over reaction
Our Community
Who We Serve
Our workshops and programs meet people where they are — in classrooms, workplaces, living rooms, and places of worship.
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Schools & Educators
K–12 schools, teachers, and counselors looking to bring critical thinking and media literacy directly into the school day.
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Parents & Families
Caregivers who want practical tools and conversations to help their kids navigate social media, AI, and digital life.
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Organizations
Workplaces and nonprofits that want to equip employees and leaders with sharper thinking skills in an AI-driven world.
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Churches & Communities
Faith communities and civic groups committed to helping their members engage thoughtfully with information and technology.
Who We Are
Our Leadership Team
Board members with decades of experience in education, medicine, health, and finance — united by a shared belief that every young person deserves the tools to think for themselves.
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Jemma Abowd, MD
Board Member — Health & Medicine
A physician and former health insurance medical director, Jemma brings rigorous evidence-based thinking and a multidisciplinary perspective to RethinkOnline's programs and impact.
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James Damico, PhD
Board Member — Education
A Professor of Education, author, and digital technology specialist at Indiana University whose work focuses on media literacy, critical thinking, and navigating complex information.
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Mary Beth Borkowski
Board Member — Education
A National Board Certified Teacher with decades in the classroom, Mary Beth contributes deep expertise in curriculum development, student engagement, and educational equity.
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Jeff Reynolds
Board Member — Finance
An accomplished CFO with experience across nonprofit and for-profit sectors, Jeff brings financial stewardship and strategic leadership to RethinkOnline's operations and social impact goals.
Join Us
Help Build the Next Generation of Critical Thinkers
The next generation is already online. Help make sure they're equipped to think clearly within it — not just scroll through it.
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Bring a Workshop to Your Community
Request a workshop or training for your school, family, organization, or faith community. We'll bring the program to you.
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Become a Supporter
Your gift funds workshops and materials for under-resourced schools, families, and communities who need these skills the most.
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Partner With Us
Partner with us to bring these programs to your community, region, or network — and help expand our reach.
Partner With Us