Moving Forward with Technology
 
We are challenged in schools to provide an appropriate preparation for life for our students in a world of constant change and innovation. This has been particularly challenging at a time when computers and information technology have been revolutionising how we live, work and learn.
 
Current Grades 10,11 and 12
In recent years at Mulgrave we have introduced tablets in the Senior School and today all our students in Grades 10,11 and 12 are required to purchase a specific Mulgrave approved tablet to support their learning. The teachers have received additional training and are now becoming very adept at harnessing the power of this extraordinary tool to enhance their teaching and strengthening learning.
 
Grade 6 in 2008/09
Today I am happy to be able to announce that the Board have approved the introduction of a laptop programme at Mulgrave starting next September in Grade 6. All students in Grade 6 will be assigned their own designated laptop which will be provided by the school.  The advantage of starting such a programme at this age and grade is that in the Junior School, the children spend 80% of their time with their designated homeroom teacher. That teacher can introduce them to their laptop and effectively train them in a uniform manner and ensure a sound base for their future experiences with this powerful tool. Many Canadian and International Schools have adopted a similar laptop programme at this age and this is not a new approach for some of our Grade 6 teachers who have come from schools where this programme is in place already.  Jacqui Johnson has this experience from her time overseas.  She is one of our team of Grade 6 teachers and I am happy to report has accepted the role of Technology Coordinator for the Junior School . The other Grade 6 teachers are excited about this opportunity and are now on a fast track preparing themselves for this change.
 
Grade 7 in 2009/10
The ripple effects of this decision are significant.  This means that when this group of Grade 6 students move on to Grade 7 in September 2009, their parents will be required to provide a personal laptop computer to support their learning through the Middle School.  This laptop can also be used as a home computer on a separate partition so serving their needs both at school and at home. At this time, we estimate that the cost of the laptop model will be approximately $400 a year and it will serve as essential equipment at school through Grades 7, 8 and 9. It is important for parents to note that this laptop must be acquired through the school to ensure uniformity.  So please take this into account when making your plans in anticipation of 2009.  The details will be made available to parents in good time for the 2009/10 school year.
 
Grades 7,8 and 9 in 2008/09
With tablets being required in Grade 10 and up and starting laptops in Grade 6, clearly we also need to address the technology needs of the students in Grade 7,8 and 9.  To this end, Graham Gilley, our Director of Educational Technology, is being assigned to teach almost exclusively in the Middle School while this programme unfolds.  "Technology" in the MYP programme is rather broader than computers; it includes robotics and a more hands-on approach to learning technology.  Mr. Gilley, with his broad experience and many skills, is ideally suited to bridging this gap.

We are very excited about these developments and will keep you advised of the details at each level as they become confirmed.

Sincerely,


Tony Macoun
tmacoun@mulgrave.com