Photo by Tim Hacker/ Mesa Public Schools
Students throughout Mesa Public Schools are learning in new ways, thanks to one-to-one technology.
In fall of 2015, Skyline High School launched the One-To-One Technology Initiative Program. During registration, students were issued a Lenovo ThinkPad laptop to use for school-related purposes. The devices give students access to important tools to complete classroom and homework tasks and access digital and online textbooks and resources. The devices also serve to augment learning opportunities with teachers and peers in new and exciting ways.
It’s in the details
Every detail about the rollout was examined, from personalized identification stickers for each device, to a simple checkout process and the ability to track thousands of devices students take home. Michelle Hamilton, director of purchasing and property management, researched ways to streamline the process. She found the right fit for the district’s needs, saving thousands of dollars in equipment costs by using an app that scans QR or barcodes.
“The process was seamless,” Michelle said. “Students walked up to the table to get their device, and we scanned the student ID. We then took the device out of storage, loaned it to the student, hit Enter, and the process was complete.”
A learning curve
Changes were made to incorporate how students now use the school’s media center. Non-emergency work requests help less-dire situations. For immediate needs, there is a centralized location staffed by student technicians, called the tech squad, who are supervised by a lead technician. They help students with non-operating devices before and after school and every hour in between. Technology orientations are hosted in the media center for newly enrolled students to get them up to speed before they attend class.
Bookcases were removed, furniture was rearranged, and additional power strips were placed around the floor for easy student access. Additional chargers and textbooks are available for students who need to complete last-minute assignments.
“In the past, students would visit the media center to use the computers,” said Marcy Ruggiero, Skyline High School’s resource specialist. “Now, students come in to print papers, finalize projects or get help with their devices. My role has evolved into a triage specialist, where I systematize and prioritize students who need immediate help.”
Future plans
The technology initiative is supported by a voter-approved $230 million bond initiative, which funded the purchase of student devices and the Wi-Fi infrastructure, allowing 3,000 students to simultaneously access the Internet from their devices.
Westwood High School implemented the program at the start of spring semester, with Dobson and Red Mountain high schools slated for the 2016-17 school year. The Eisenhower Center for Innovation and Lehi Elementary School also use one-to-one during school hours.
For more information about all Mesa Public Schools, please visit mpsaz.org.