Technology

Vision | Computer Classes | Technology Integration | Innovation Center

Vision

Our vision is to instill in students, faculty, and staff, the skills and motivation to thrive in the technology-rich environment in which we live.  As part of this vision, we are commited to seamlessly integrating the best learning and productivity tools into our programs and our school culture.  Our vision is to utilize technology resources for analyzing, synthesizing, creating and communicating information.  Technology integration allows for differentiation in ways that add to the overall school experience for all stakeholders.

Computer Class

At The Center, second and third grade students attend the computer lab once every six school days, and fourth through sixth graders meet twice per six-day rotation.  Students go to class in groups of fifteen or less which assures each child their own computer.  Students are exposed to applications that allow them to think sequentially and creatively to accomplish their goals.  Each year, students build upon their keyboard skills in computer class and some take an early morning elective class for additional practice.

In the lab, students are introduced to a variety of programs that will provide a solid foundation from which to continue expanding their expertise in a specific program or to adapt to similar programs. This enables students to increase their ability to adapt to the changing landscape of computers. Students learn by doing with the goal of becoming independent problem solvers.

Technology Integration

Beyond the lab, technology is integrated into the school’s curriculum in a variety of ways at every grade level and in every subject area.  In our Early Childhood Program through 2nd grade, computers are set up as Learning Centers where students practice basic skills and play educational games.  EC through 3rd grade students also use iPads for such activities as math games and listening to book. Fourth through sixth grade students enjoy a 1:1 laptop program and use their individual devices to perform research, publish assignments, and creat multimedia projects in all subject areas. In the library, children in grades 2-6 participate in an information studies program which combines the automated catalog and the Internet to teach search strategy, digital citizenship, Internet safety and other information management skills.

Innovation Center

The Mission of the Innovation Center is to promote, support, inspire, and celebrate innovation. Innovation by its very nature exists in a fluid state, so the Innovation Center must remain adaptable for ever-changing needs, demands, tools, and interests. The room is for all stakeholders, and should foster connectedness with others in remote locations. The Innovation Center exemplifies the philosophy that digital tools belong in educators’ tool kits for supporting a strong curriculum.

The Innovation Center provides a home base for the Curriculum Technology Coordinator, who promotes the room’s use for project-based learning. On any given day, a teacher may bring a group to create advertisements for a persuasive writing unit, another group of students may Skype with a class in another country, or some teachers may spend lunch in a workshop.  Throughout the day, faculty might stop by to borrow or return document cameras or response pads, or to ask technology integration questions. With three mounted cameras and two mobile ones, the room also serves as an ideal place to capture a lesson digitally for portfolio, feedback, or other purposes. After school, a drama class might meet to make a short film. At night, parents might convene for a seminar on cyber-bullying. Summer programs make use of the Innovation Center for teacher professional development.

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