Introduction - As a charter member of the nationally prominentLeague of Innovative Schools, the Howard-Suamico School District (HSSD) is excited to announce its new Digital Transformation initiative. While the HSSD has been incorporating technology into all of its schools for more than a decade, this year we are implementing a ground-breaking personal mobile computing initiative at Bay Port High School. As part of our ongoing efforts to prepare students with the 21st century skills they need for both higher education opportunities and careers, we are strategically investing in the training, support and equipment that our staff and students need to thrive in the new “digital landscape”.
The District’s Digital Transformation initiative is more than simply providing a technology device to students. Rather, it is about changing the classroom experience and personalizing the learning process for both the teacher and the student. Additionally, it is about leveraging the impact of universal access allowed by personal mobile technology and its ability to expand learning beyond the brick and mortar walls of the classroom.
For the first time, students will have access to expanded learning opportunities made possible through technology. Tapping the most current information available through the Internet, and interfacing with peers on the District’s web hosted Learning Management System, will afford staff and students a freedom and flexibility previously unattainable. Students will complete and turn in assignments, homework, projects or research electronically. To further develop and collaborate in the 21st century environment, interactive applications will help improve reading fluency, build mathematics skills, bolster study habits, and aid in the creation and publishing of relevant projects and products.
Over time, high quality digital and multi-media content will take the place of traditional textbooks. During our transition, teachers will continue to use some hard copy materials as they increasingly supplement with engaging and digitally rich online resources.
Pundits ask the question: “Are we preparing students for their futures or our past?” This guide reflects the Howard-Suamico School District’s affirmation of the former.
For more information, please see the link to the Digital Transformation Guidebook for additional details related to those involved in the Phase I implementation scheduled for this fall.
