Local students have access to a first-in-the-nation technology program
The Merrill Area Public Schools has officially launched its new 1-to-1 iPad initiative – and it’s one of the first of its kind in the country.
The initiative provides iPad Pro tablet devices to all district students in 9th through 12th grades, supplementing the iPad Air devices to which all K-8 students have access. It will promote students’ digital skills development through early access to technology, and was made possible through the district’s priority-based budgeting strategy focused on enhancing student learning.
MAPS is one of the first school districts in Wisconsin to provide students with personalized access to iPad learning, and the first in the country to offer iPad Pros in this capacity. The iPad Pro is the latest innovation from Apple and is considered by industry professionals to be a key advancement in technology.
“We are extremely excited to offer MAPS students the ability to develop their digital literacy through the implementation of this groundbreaking 1-to-1 program,” said Walter Leipart, superintendent of MAPS. “This great initiative allows local students to develop technological abilities from an early age. We look forward to teaching students how to be skilled and successful members of the digital community.”
Through the 1-to-1 iPad initiative, students engage in individualized instruction that encourages skills in digital problem solving and communication. Students benefit from the iPad Pro’s large screen, stylus pen and optional keyboard that enhances the overall learning experience and allows for customization. In addition to learning about the technological uses for the iPad Pro, students will receive instruction on digital citizenship and online responsibility.
“The 1-to-1 iPad initiative perfectly supports the school district’s mission to provide each student with a personalized learning experience,” said Leipart. “As technology advances and becomes an integral part of our society, it’s our duty to empower students with digital programs that allow them to set objectives, apply new skills and achieve educational goals.”
The MAPS priority-based budgeting process has allowed the school district to reach strategic goals #1 and #4, as outlined by the Board of Education for the years 2014-2017. The district has been particularly focused on personalized learning and the use of 1-to-1 technology in the classroom.