While deep state funding cutbacks cast a shadow over most Michigan schools, there is one bright spot that I am very excited about: Taylor School District. Now you may be thinking, "I have never heard of this district let alone anything about tech use." Maybe so, but new Director of Technology Scott Jacobs has other plans.
Jacobs and Deputy Superintendent Dr. Lynette Sutton are creatively using special ed monies to revolutionize English and math instruction across their district with Tablet PCs. About 10 mobile carts will be deployed throughout the middle schools and high school this fall. I believe that this represents the biggest commitment to Tablet PCs by a Michigan K12 district to date. But they aren't stopping with computers.
On the infrastructure side, Jacobs tells me that they are upgrading their Internet pipe to fiber, as well as ensuring that each cart has two commercial-grade APs. They are investing in training for teachers as well as centrally-managed classroom management and interaction software built for the 802.11x environment.
However, the main reason that I'm going to watch this one closely is due to Jacob's extensive experience in IT and in the classroom. As a former teacher, he has the unique ability to understand how technology is adopted by all types of teachers and students. Tablet PCs and Ink-enabled software show much promise in helping visual and tactile learners--many of whom are in special ed programs--succeed. I imagine that Jacobs is thinking through not only how this program will affect classroom instruction but also how it will promote parent participation or even distance learning (which Michigan students are required to do).
Look for more updates on Taylor's project this fall.
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