Dear
Pauling Pride Community,
The Linus Pauling Middle
School community should collectively take pride in our 1:World project this
fall. It has been a complex undertaking in many respects. In
collaboration with educators who have gone before us with expanding digital
tools in a similar manner, we heard consistently that the first year is
typically the most challenging. As we implement our new tools into the
teaching and learning process, we will share with you how our vision for
critical, creative, and collaborative thinking is supported through our
integration project. As you know, our students are smart and skilled, but
I want to share some of my observations of good old-fashioned etiquette on
display as nearly 700 iPads were checked out this past month.
After a pilot year and
preparation this fall, students eagerly came to the library during his or her
science period to check out an iPad! Primarily, I saw excitement and a
little relief that after multiple boot camps and trainings, we were ready to launch.
Upon entering, I’ll never forget how a few faces lit up like they were entering
Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. I overheard several student’s say, “this
is better than Christmas.” I also spoke with students with nerves about
the added responsibility. A few students realized their binder needed a
little organizational attention. I appreciated seeing students who
already had experience with digital tools sharing tips with friends.
As students went through
the stations, I was blown away by how LP students respectfully listened,
followed directions, and asked questions. As one of our district tech
staff reached to take a student’s iPad to check its configuration, the student
first reached and shook his hand. As parents and educators, we understand
that modeling and teaching good manners is a tireless commitment, but stay the
course. As students completed the six required stations, I enjoyed
listening to ideas about how this new tool will support their learning. A
young man in our band program shared with me about a tuning app he was hoping
to have added which will help him improve his tone at home. A student who
had been using assistive technology prior to the roll-out was glad that
everyone will have access so her disability doesn’t make her stand out.
As the principal on roll-out day, I felt a little like Willy Wonka giving his
factory of opportunity to eager children. The best part was that students
didn’t have to find a hidden golden ticket to be included. At the
conclusion of our roll out days, I heard affirming words from district staff
and community visitors about our students. I hope you also take pride in
the positive perception I heard during this special week.
As previously shared, this
will be a learning year for all. We will be continuing to provide
training to our teachers and support staff on effective ways to enhance our
teaching content with technology. I’ve already enjoyed hearing
brainstorming from our creative teachers. Recently while on lunch duty,
Mr. Skinner was describing an idea to amplify his ancient Rome unit and oral
speaking unit. He is looking forward to having students research a role
(e.g. guard, spectator, or gladiator) with a variety of print and digital
resources. To assess his students’ knowledge and speaking standards, the
iPad will be used to record partner and group interviews while in
character. This type of idea is just one example where cognitive
engagement, differentiating for ability, and creativity, will undoubtedly
enhance learning, which makes the immense hard work and challenges of getting
to this point completely worth it.
Go
PRIDE & Go Beavs!
Sincerely,
Eric
Beasley
Principal
