The Voorhees Middle School’s use of iPads in the classrooms was highlighted at the Board of Education’s meeting last week.
In the 1:1 iPad Initiative, 1,200 iPads were incorporated into the middle school to teach children life skills they can take into their working and adult life. Diane Killough Young, assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction, read some emails she had received about the iPads since they have been in use. Many of the emails were from teachers updating the district about their use and success of the iPads. One teacher even wrote that students were begging to work on science assignments at home over the weekend.
“All I can say is impressive, incredible innovation at its best. I saw 21st century learning at its best,” Young said, reading an email from an administrator.
Middle School Principal Robert Rossi said within one week, students and teachers were using and incorporating the iPads into the classrooms. It has been more than 30 days since the iPads have been in use, and, according to Rossi, it has been a “seamless transition.”
The middle school video, put together by Irene Afek, coordinator of special programs, showed students working together and in class on their iPads. The iPads allow the students to collaborate with others, communicate globally, problem solve, think critically and be creative. The iPad is shown to be used in many settings from science to gym to music classes.
Many members of the board expressed their approval of the program. They believe they are really taking a step toward 21st-century teaching and preparing students for the future.
“I think it’s fantastic that finally we are getting to the point that we are giving the students the opportunity to have this technology sitting in front of them,” board member Richard Wojdon said.
Check out the video showing the middle school’s use of iPads and how they represent the school’s brand, Inspire, Engage, and Innovate. The video can be found on the Voorhees School District www.voorhees.k12.nj.us.
In other news:
• Stacy DeBernardo was given an award for working at the Voorhees School District for 25 years. DeBernardo was hired as a district-wide instrumental teacher and has taught at every school in the district. She is currently at Voorhees Middle School where she is the conductor of the seventh- and eighth-grade Vikings band and conductor of the orchestra. She also provides lessons to middle school students. DeBernardo has made a great impact upon the district’s music program with her passion for both music and teaching, board members said.
“Thank you for everything that you’ve done,” Richard Nelson, president of the board of education, said.
• Students are reading a book called “Wonder” by R. J. Palacio. The main character August Pullman has a facial difference that separates him from his classmates and shows how he is treated and others treat him because of it. The themes the school took from the book are themes of empathy, compassion and acceptance. In cooperation with the book, the school has partnered with The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, The Children’s Cranofacial Association and My Name is Lentil.
• The next BOE meeting is on Nov. 24 at 7:30 p.m. at Kresson School.
