TECHNOLOGY

Go to Technology Update to discover "What's Happening at DeBusk."


Nine 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:  Boxer Algebra, Cornerstone Language Arts/Math/Vocabulary, and Knowledge Works Reading/Math. We also have Office 2000/XP/2003 (word processing, powerpoint, data base, and spreadsheet), Netscape Communicator 7.1, Explorer, Type to Learn, Type to Learn Jr., 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.  Academy of Reading 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 subscribe 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 ThinkLink P.A.S.S. to see which standards students have met or not met.  Also, students will be able to research safely at  netTrekker, the trusted search engine for schools.  Students and teachers can also chat, post messages on the message board, and email safely at GaggleTn.com.

Our Technology Team meets regularly to oversee and plan for our technology needs.  For 2006-2007 we are scheduling all students with regular computer lab time to better integrate technology with the curriculum.  Students in grades 4-8 will receive instruction by the Title I Technology Specialist for  4 days each week.  Students in grades K-3 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 our Greene County Policy.
 
 

Updated 9-1-06

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