A variety of grants have brought us the latest technology; 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.

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As we begin the new school year

General reminders:

Students will 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