Technology in the Classroom

 Student learning is the heart of what we do in Region 15. We believe computer technologies integrated with our school subjects enhance student learning.

 “We’re using technology to teach reading, writing, research, and arithmetic,” said Richard Gusenburg, Long Meadow Elementary School principal and Region 15 technology committee chairman.

 “Computers are embedded into every curriculum. For example, the students learn about a subject such as history then use a computer to create PowerPoint presentations, pamphlets or web pages about what they’ve learned. At home, children tend to play games or e-mail friends on the computer. At school, they research topics and produce documents that would rival anything at a college or workplace,” said Mr. Gusenburg.

 Region 15 has a responsibility to prepare our young learners for future success. Today, employees must be able to convey their points verbally, literally and visually. Successful students at the most competitive post-secondary schools and at work can communicate their ideas using their academic as well as technology skills.

 The Region 15 technology committee’s three-year plan, endorsed by the Board of Education, made recommendations about the district’s use of technology. One aspect of the plan was to replace computers every six years. However, due to budget restraints, the technology line item on recent school budgets has been cut. Today, many computers are too old to run some software and do not meet the students’ needs.

 “We’re at a critical point now,” said Russ Sage, Region 15 technology manager. “The money from the construction projects saved us for a while but unless we invest in new hardware now, we’ll soon be looking at an outdated system. We’re mindful of protecting the community’s dollars as well as maintaining our excellent school system, and hope to purchase 200 new computers, stretched out throughout the district, in the coming year.”

 Region 15 recently completed three major construction projects at Pomperaug High School, Rochambeau Middle School, and Memorial Middle School. While some money from those projects helped defray technology costs at the middle and high schools, the elementary schools received very limited funding.

 “Our students, from kindergarten to high school, are doing amazing things with the technology they have,” said Mr. Gusenburg. “Their academic work is enriched by the use of these tools. If we can give students the technological support they need, we will better prepare them for a strong future in whatever career they choose.”

Click here for photos of students using computer technology in their schoolwork.