Technology

Technology

Hardy County Schools is involved in a number of “technology” projects – what do they mean? Yes – we are taking steps and initiatives in a wide variety of programs – all designed to “Help Students Succeed”. The most common comment that parents make is that “my child will need to learn to operate computers in the future”. Following are several examples of what we are actively doing:

Basic Skills: Allocations through the State for implementation of computer servers, wiring, hardware, and software for all students in grades Kindergarten through six. Students are provided with software that addresses specific requirements of the Stanford Achievement Test required by the State of WV to measure progress. This has been installed in all grade levels and is actively used. To supplement this program Title I teachers have been working in elementary computer labs to assist Title I, and all other students, in using the programs. They are a valuable resource to students and teachers to insure that students use the technology provided to increase learning.

Success: This is similar to the Basic Skills program; however, it is focused at grades seven and above. Allocations provide for the same type of equipment and software. Again, students are provided with software that addresses specific requirements of the Stanford Achievement Test required by the State of WV to measure progress.

E-RATE: This is a federal program of financial support for pubic school systems. It results in reduced cost for tele-communications devices and Internet services. Hardy County Schools actively pursues this funding, and it has resulted in substantial cost reductions. One outcome has been the establishment of “T-1” lines for each of our schools – the fastest possible connections for learning over the Internet.

ALS: This software, Advance Learning Systems, has been purchased for use in each school with grades 5 – 12. It provides instructional software for everything from reading to calculus. Teachers actively use this to supplement classroom instruction. It has proved very valuable for students in advanced classes and those who have missed class-work. A special use is for students who are on homebound instruction. They can work at home and still receive course credit for secondary classes.

Computer Loan Program: Started last year this program provides a computer, complete with ALS software, for any student who wants one – to take home. A pilot program for 5^th graders at EHEMS last year proved very successful. It will be expanded this year to include 4^th grade students at both MES and EHEMS. In addition, and through a special arrangement with the company, parents who already have a computer at home may have the software installed on their computer without charge. Watch for additional information on how to participate in this program.

Virtual Classes: Secondary students have the opportunity to enroll in specific classes that may not be available through the regular curriculum. The variety of classes being taken by students this year includes French, German, Latin, English electives, History and others. These are all opportunities that were not available even one year ago. As we expand this program we will no longer be limited by what is available in the “regular curriculum.” In the near future we will be able to offer what any student is ready to learn.

Acceptable Use Policy: Students and employees access to the Internet can certainly be a two-edged sword. For two years Hardy County Schools has exceeded every state and federal requirement for what types of “sites” may be accessed on school equipment by students or employees. Our policies have been strictly enforced. The Internet is a valuable learning tool – and every effort will continue to be made to insure that it is used for the education purposes intended.

Technology Training: Training for future graduates in the world of computers is wide open. Hardy County Schools has been actively involved in establishing the first area “CISCO” training for students. The future combination of programs through our county schools, South Branch Vocational Center, and Eastern West Virginia Community & Technical College will result in our students having access to the most advanced training possible. The opportunity for technology training for our students, and any interested adult, it is outstanding.

What is next? The future is unlimited. The one constant is that Hardy County Schools will continue to seek out every opportunity for programs to help our children succeed!