District to hold 1:1 Technology Initiative Info Sessions
For the past few years, Deer Lakes School District has been actively considering the implementation of a 1:1 technology initiative for its students. The prevalence of electronic devices in today's society increases access to a wide range of curricular materials and offers an excellent tool to increase student engagement and achievement. In fulfilling the mission of preparing students to advance to college or careers, the school district has an important responsibility to provide substantial opportunities for students to become proficient with the 21st-century work tools and to establish a foundation of good digital citizenship.
The investigation into a 1:1 technology initiative has consisted of 1) reviewing the
research of the use/implementation of 1:1 technology in schools across the country, 2)
consideration of appropriate devices and instructional materials, 3) visiting schools that have successfully implemented 1:1 strategies, 4) interviewing school personnel and students regarding their experiences in a 1:1 environment, 5) analyzing challenges associated with a 1:1 initiative, 6) professional development models to effectively train teachers, and 7) the sustainability of a 1:1 educational environment.
Deer Lakes has a proud of the history of providing its students the resources they’ll need to succeed. Traditional computer labs, as well as classroom-based computers, have been the mainstay of the technology hardware provided to students. In recent years, Deer Lakes has also implemented district-wide interactive displays which help teachers and students collaborate in many academic disciplines.
As the use of technology in the classroom has increased, Deer Lakes has aggressively
improved the infrastructure throughout the school district. Wireless internet
connections are now available in all schools. The bandwidth available at each school has been significantly expanded to support additional Internet usage and multiple mobile devices. The district has also created the position of an instructional coach to support the increased use of technology in the classroom.
Last year, a small cohort of middle school teachers piloted the 1:1 initiative at their school. They were provided with extensive training in the effective use of technology in the classroom and received training in the use of a Google Chromebook. Encouraged by their experience, Deer Lakes will expand the program this year to include all middle school students and their teachers.
In addition to the training already provided to the middle school teachers, additional training is available throughout the summer before the start of the school year. Last year’s 1:1 initiative pilot teachers will serve as an added resource for their colleagues this year. Also, starting this year, the program will be piloted at the high school with the target of committing to all high school students in time for the 2018-2019 school year.
To help train students and their families on this exciting new program, Deer Lakes Middle School is hosting three separate training nights in August. The nights are geared at individual grade levels. However, if you are unable to attend your grade’s scheduled session you may sign up in advance for either of the other two sessions. All guests are asked to register for the event by no later than the close of business Friday, Aug. 4, 2017. All three sessions will be capped at 150 students.
Please complete the below form to register for the event. If you have any questions please contact Deer Lakes Middle School Principal David Campos, [email protected]; or Director of Technology Daniel Lauletta, [email protected].
Registration Forms
Session 1: Grade 8
Wednesday, Aug. 9
https://goo.gl/forms/TBehZmS5LLxbU4JV2
Session 2: Grade 7
Thursday, Aug. 10
https://goo.gl/forms/la1YjKqbIizi9tjv1
Session 3: Grade 6
Wednesday, Aug. 16
https://goo.gl/forms/AE7l6tmWFOYJeQBz1
Pertinent Information
1:1 Chromebook Program Overview
1:1 Chromebook Protection Plan
Posted: Thursday, July 6, 2017