Lauren Patmore’s 4th-graders at Meadow Lands Elementary School couldn’t contain their excitement Wednesday morning as each student received their own Chromebook. Thanks to a federal grant, the district is able to upgrade their technology in an effort both to provide each student with a reliable device and help close learning gaps.
Daviess County Public Schools instructional technology coordinator Aaron Yeiser said the grant — totaling nearly $2 million — allowed the district to exceed its timeline of replacing aging technology for student learning.
“The grant allowed us to purchase Chromebooks and hotspots, which together will help us close learning gaps for students who do not have access to the internet,” Yeiser said.
DCPS Computer Operations manager Steve Burton worked with the vendor to expedite delivery and configuration so devices can be distributed directly to students when they arrive.
The students at Meadow Lands were the first to receive the laptops provided by the grant.
“Access to new devices will provide students with learning opportunities that allow them to create, collaborate and construct knowledge through the use of various digital tools and resources,” said Brittney Dukes, who serves as media specialist at MLES. “I am excited to see students engaged in their learning in new, innovative ways. Other educators in my building are excited as well; they already have lessons and activities planned and ready to implement in their daily lesson plans. New, reliable devices allow students to use information, media, and digital resources responsibly as digital citizens in an ever-changing digital world.”
Students at Tamarack and East View elementary schools are scheduled to receive their laptops this week.
EVES media specialist Amber Rohleder said her focus will be on guiding students how to use devices responsibly.
“I have found that the majority of my students already have some knowledge of how to use a device. However, they may lack the skill set to use technology as a responsible digital citizen,” Rohleder said. “Having the devices in their hands during school hours is crucial to this skill development. Students can explore and use the device while still being monitored and guided by a teacher. They will be better prepared for middle and high school, and ultimately be well-equipped to enter the adult world.”
