News : School board learns of impact of iPads, 1 to 1 laptops at VSHS

School board members learned how iPads are helping Vinton-Shellsburg students learn.

Members of the Vinton-Shellsburg School Board saw several demonstrations of how modern computer technology can help with education.

Several teachers demonstrated how students are using Apple iPads and laptop computers to create videos, and learn reading and pronunciation skills.

But first, the school board members had a chance for some training on their own iPads. The school district has replaced the laptop computers that the school board members used for meetings with iPads. Technology specialist Kim Meyer spent a half hour giving board members basic instructions in how to use the devices.

The meeting took place in the library of Tilford Elementary Monday afternoon.

District considering 1 to 1 computers at VSHS

High School Principal Matt Kingsbury joined Meyer in sharing with the school board their proposal for providing each student at VSHS with his or her own laptop computer. The program would cost $700,000 with the money coming from the PPEL levy; no additional tax revenues would be required.

The purchase would be repeated every four years; middle school students would eventually use the computers after the high school students received new ones.

Kingsbury said the $700,000 includes computers, carrying bags, security and software. Kingsbury and Meyer told the board why they believe Macintosh computers are better than PCs.

VS leaders have spoken about the 1 to 1 computer program with other districts. Students in those schools generally took very good care of their computers.

Kingsbury and Meyer said that the tech committee at VSHS is putting together policies governing computer use, as well as possible fees for families if a student accidentally damages a computer.

Community support

A survey by school officials indicated that 157 people responded that they were in favor of each student having his own computer; 25 respondents said no; and 76 said maybe. Concerns expressed in the survey included the cost of the program, the expense for families of students, and filtering to make sure that students do not use inappropriate web sites. Meyer and Kingsbury explained how current technogology allows the school IT personnel to monitor every computer in the system.

The school board heard how students have used already computers to do several projects, including creating radio broadcasts and e-books.

Kingsbury said he is working with VSHS staff on setting up training sessions for students and teachers, as well as a meeting for parents; the plan is to have the computers available for the next school year, if the district and board grant final approval.

"No decision has been made, but there is some momentum building," said Superintendent Mary Jo Hainstock.