Debusk Elementary School

Success for All in an Exemplary School

Technology

           Twelve years ago, we were making plans to wire our building, two drops of CAT-5 per room; and in May 1998, our plans became reality.  Instead of four 21st Century classrooms connected to the Internet, we have nineteen classrooms, guidance, library, office, music/art, cafeteria, and two computer labs connected.   Instead of a 3.1 Novell Network, we are running Novell 6.0 on our new server which is located in a secure wiring closet.

 

           We have network licenses for several quality instructional programs:  Orchard, Reading Coach, Boxer Algebra, Cornerstone Language Arts/Math/Vocabulary, and Knowledge Works Reading/Math. We also have Office 2007 and 2000/XP/2003 (word processing, PowerPoint, data base, and spreadsheet), Netscape Communicator 7.1, Explorer, Type to Learn, Type to Learn Jr., and KidPix Deluxe in the computer labs according to age appropriateness.  Accelerated Reader, Star Reader, and Star Early Literacy are being utilized to promote reading and improve reading skills.  Reading Coach is used for reading remediation.  With Launch 2 funds we have added Kidspiration 2 and Inspiration 7 to enhance critical thinking in the core curriculum areas.  We also subscribed to United Streaming which gives us access to over 5,000 videos; 50,000 video clips; 2,000 images, and more.  This year teachers will have access to data from Orchard to see which standards students have met or not met. 

 

           Our Technology Team meets regularly to oversee and plan for our technology needs.  We are schedule all students with regular computer lab time to better integrate technology with the curriculum.  Students in grades 1-8 will receive instruction by the Title I Technology Specialist every other day of the school week.  Students in grades K-2 will go to the minilab with their classroom teacher for 30 minutes each day.

We have at least 5 Internet/network connected computers in each classroom so that teachers can use technology at all times.  Teachers can also check out the mobile wireless lab.  A presentation cart with a laptop, projector, CPS, and InterWrite student pads is in each 1-8 classroom.  To help teachers instruct, a Smart Board and a ceiling mounted projector are permanently installed in each computer lab.  

 

           We realize, however, that equipment is not an end in itself – using technology to improve curriculum, communication, and record keeping is the prime concern of the entire faculty.  Staff members are discovering the benefits of using WebPages, and all of our certified staff have developed pages that have been posted on our resident Xitami server.   Teachers want and expect training to be able to effectively use technology. Students and teachers follow our Acceptable Use Policy  as well as the Greene County Policy.

“What’s Happening with Technology at Debusk.”