A variety of grants continue to bring us the latest technology:

A diocesan Alive in Hope Grant has provided our 6th grade students and teacher with individual wireless netbbooks enabling instant access to the Internet particularly for their Social Studies curriculum.  Research and special projects are now more readily completed, thus increasing student interest.

Smartboards have recently been installed in several more classrooms.

NYSSL funds have been used to purchase a subscription to BrainPOP and BrainPOP Jr enabling use in all classrooms. This is "an animated, curriculum-based content that engages students, supports educators, and bolsters achievement".  There are free clips that might be viewed at home.

In 2008 a private grant brought 53 desktop computers: 27 in our Media Center, 3 student units in each K - 3 classroom and each K-8 classroom has a teacher unit.   A Diocesan McEntegart Grant provided each K-8 classroom with an LCD projector, screen and a wireless Airliner or Chalkboard in addition to two interactive SmartBoards and document cameras for all to use.

Best Buy te@ch Grants have brought high-end multimedia computers, digital still, movie, and two "Skype" cameras.  Through participation in Dept of Ed grants we have received a MacBook as well as a Windows laptop that make podcasting, movie making and music creation a delight!  Web 2.0 tools enhance our work.

Our goal: Technology integration throughout the curriculum.

Locating HW assignments

WebMail

General reminders:

Students have lessons in the Media Center Lab approximately twice a month.

Practice Internet Safety whenever online.  Social networking sites are intended for those older than our student population.  (Reminder: What is posted online remains online somewhere - think Google.)  Please complete and return the Internet Use Policy form.

Learning.com's individualized technology lessons will continue to be assigned for class/homework. These are short "how-to" lessons (keyboarding, using various types of programs: outlining. word processing, spreadsheet, etc.).  Each student has a personal account and progress is graded within the program at the end of each lesson.  

It is important to practice keyboarding skills on a daily basis.  Dance Mat Typing will appeal to the younger student while Keybr will challenge the older student.  There are even piano keyboard lessons for the musically inclined.  A Google search will provide many alternatives.

Advanced planning (homework: e.g. prepare a short script to be read) is assigned so that the student is prepared to learn about and to use various Web 2.0 tools during lab time to complete and post a project.

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As we have since 2003, students will participate (in October/November) in SPEAK UP DAY

Parents will also be invited & encouraged  to participate in this national survey of technology use:

a) click on the link (will be provided when the survey opens)

b) select New York State

c) type: st fran

d) click on the "find school" button

e) click on our school's name

f) participate