A school district in Mecosta County is making sure that every student has access to technology. The school district was recently given a grant that was nearly one million dollars. Every student will have a chromebook or iPad soon.
Roger Cole is the school superintendent. He stated that technology in the classroom will enhance students’ learning experience. He also stated that it will give students an advantage. It does not matter whether the students want to go to college, trade school or straight to the workforce after they graduate.
Betty Tramper is a 5th grade teacher at the school. She stated that if technology is a part of a student’s life, then it will change the way that they view it. She wants students to know that technology can be used for a lot more than just playing games or making phone calls.
Vern Smith is a biology teacher. He stated that if a student has a Chromebook, then they can take a trip without leaving the classroom. He also stated that textbooks are getting old, and technology is changing just like science is.
Students and teachers are currently sharing Chromebooks. This can make it difficult for teachers to make lesson plans. They have been forced to push back lesson plans because of this. Lauren McCamon is a 10th grade student. She stated that she has had trouble completing her assignments because she does not have a computer.
Kindergarteners and first graders will be given the iPads. Students who are in the second grade and up will be given chromebooks. Teachers stated that this will cater to the students’ learning process and pace.
The grant money will also be used to help teachers with their lesson plans. The school officials are hoping that they will be able to give every student an iPad and Chromebook by next school year.
Dil Bole Oberoi
