Submitted by Mrs. Marilyn Henning
Primary Grades Add New Technology
Last year our district boasted 1:1 access to Chromebooks at Indian Rock and East York Elementary Schools. This school year we’ve extended our 1:1 program to grades one and two at Valley View and Yorkshire. Chromebooks are just one of the many tools teachers are using to engage students. Children are not plugged in all day; we want our young learners to limit screen time and stay active! So why 1:1? No two students learn the same way at the same rate, and technology in independent work stations can provide brief sessions of diversified instruction. Instructional technology can also yield detailed, instant feedback to teachers, allowing them to plan lessons that target and close learning gaps. Online access prepares our learners to be responsible digital citizens in our modern world and enhances research, creative thinking, collaboration, and communication. Best of all, the Web offers high quality, fun, and engaging activities that spark student interest. The goal is not more tech; the goal is quick access to the right tech, and our 1:1 program provides that.
Elementary Students STEAM Ahead
As our second year of 1:1 with Chromebooks continues, York Suburban’s fifth grade students are experiencing some new and exciting choices in their related arts. The newly developed STEAM course puts children in charge of their learning as they explore the engineering design process and develop their innovation skills — all while exploring potential careers. Five teachers across the district are engaging students in project-based learning, and student feedback has been great. The first project ignited kids’ curiosity and creativity. Students designed and built their own coin machines! Please view our pictures of their inventive minds at work.