One-to-one initiative launches in Charles City schools

Charles City parents will get an opportunity to participate in a technology session as part of the One-to-One technology initiative implemented by the local school system.

On Sept. 12 and 13 at 630 p.m., parents will have the opportunity to learn and receive a hands-on experience using the technology. Families will learn more about the initiative and to understand the expectations for and use of the laptops.

Each Charles City High School student (grades 7-12) will be provided a laptop computer, while teachers will be outfitted with tablets.

“Having this level of technology in our classrooms takes instruction to the next level,” said Charles City superintendent of schools David Gaston in a press release. “Students will be able to have everything that they need for learning at their fingertips.”

Through the new devices, students will be able to upload classwork and homework and complete assignments at home. Teachers will be able to interact with the students as individuals or groups, giving instant feedback on lessons through the use of the laptops and tablets. The OneNote program will eliminate the need to rely on internet service at home, as students will be able to download their assignments to their computers, complete them at home, and return to the school where they will be uploaded to teachers.

“We are so excited to have this technology initiative finally arrive at Charles City Public Schools,” said school board chairwoman Helen Payne-Jones. “This will take our instruction and achievement to the next level and distinguish our school division as a Microsoft-certified and support division.”

The school division received a $252,600 in state funding to support the initiative, with a contribution of $50,520 from the locality.

During fiscal year 2017-18, the second phase of the one-to-one initiative will focus on providing laptops to every student in grades 3-6 and tablets for grades Kindergarten to second at Charles City Elementary School.