Sikeston R-6 Schools: More details provided about new iPad initiative

SIKESTON -- As word spreads the Sikeston R-6 School District is implementing an initiative that will put iPads into the hands of all high school students, some students, parents and community members may be wondering what exactly all of this means for the coming school year.

Project iLearn is a 1:1 initiative for all Sikeston High School students that will begin with the start of the 2013-2014 school year. The 1:1 refers to one mobile computing device, such as the iPad, for every student.

"This initiative will let us change what's happening in the classroom," said Superintendent Tom Williams.

Sikeston R-6 Technology Coordinator Michelle Gilmer agreed.

"This is a different method of teaching. It's teaching to meet the needs of the students," Gilmer said.

Project iLearn is a result of the vision of the schools to better prepare students for success in the world of today and for the future. The district is beginning at the high school but plans to cover grades K-12 eventually.

"The idea of giving a mobile device to every student at our high school campus grew out of a desire to address the need to give our students the best preparation possible for success in college, in careers and in the community," Gilmer said. "We can see how the world around us has changed to be more technology-oriented, more collaborative and has come to value critical thinking skills."

Gilmer said the only way to prepare students for the world of today and tomorrow is to transform the Sikeston R-6 classrooms.

Prior to the start of the new school year in August, students will be given the opportunity to sign a user agreement. They will use the iPads in class, and they will be allowed to take the iPads home with them.

"Putting a mobile device in a student's hands opens the door to 24/7, lifelong learning," Gilmer told the Board. "They do not have to wait for information to be given to them by the teacher. They hold it in their hands."

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