Technology to Support 21st Century Learning
A key component of our 21st Century initiative is to provide our students with the essential digital and media skills they will need for inquiry, collaboration and communication. We understand that simply adding new devices and technology alone will not improve student learning. Our approach to upgrading technology and implementing new tools has been to plan and implement new practices strategically. We have engaged in pilot projects at grade levels and school sites. By engaging in our own inquiry, testing new ideas and tools, we have invested in technology in ways that support the development and expansion of learning opportunities for students.
With this vision in mind, we have made the following technology upgrades:
With this vision in mind, we have made the following technology upgrades:
- Updated servers, increased bandwidth, switches and connections
- Installed a wireless infrastructure throughout the district.
- Migrated to Google Apps throughout the district, including Google Apps for students in grades 3-12.
- We have also moved forward with our efforts to improve access to technology for all students and staff to support learning goals -- laptops, Chromebooks and iPads for students and staff. 1:1 in grades 2-8; 1:2 in Kindergarten and First Grade.
- Created Edmodo district domain and initiated the use of this powerful social learning tool with students and staff.
- Student use of online tools for digital portfolios, blogging, video editing, Prezi, Evernote, Google Docs, Weebly.
- Student use of iPads for project-based work -- research, video editing, creation of products.
- Web-based applications to provide access for student learning -- Lexia, Study Island, XtraMath, Google Apps.
- Implemented computer adaptive assessments across grades K-8 in Reading and Math (Renaissance Learning).
- District’s focus on moving toward paperless communication with parents via ZippSlip, SchoolGo mobile app, website, and social media.
- Explore options for expanding access in classrooms through district investment, parent leasing plan and BYOD with a goal of ensuring access for all students.
- Job Embedded professional learning through technology coaching for teachers to provide support for developing skills and competencies in the use of technology for instructional purposes, not simply to access information but to create, communicate and collaborate.
- Parent education component -- workshops for parents on using tools and supporting their children’s learning at home.