Develop the Potential of Every Student with iPad: A Digital Delight!
Welcome to the expansive world of the District School Board of North-Eastern Ontario—where teaching is as vast as its 25,000 square kilometers of rural territory! With a delightful medley of 7,300 students spread across 33 schools, they’re on a mission more ambitious than a cat trying to swim: to help every student reach excellence. It’s like herding cats, only these cats come with iPads and a diverse blend of backgrounds. A third of them have special needs, and another third have indigenous origins—who knew a Venn diagram could look so juicy? Oh wait, no overlaps? Now that’s a true puzzle!
So, let’s rewind to 2014. A brave band of teachers, likely clad in superhero capes (or at least comfy sweaters), decided to introduce the iPad into classrooms. Their reasoning? It’s accessible, packed with educational tools, and lets kids unleash their creativity like a toddler at a birthday party with too much cake. Not to mention, kids can record, edit, and present without sacrificing their privacy. I mean, who doesn’t want to shout their brilliance from the digital rooftops?
“With iPad, everyone can use their talents to succeed. It’s a way to make intelligence shine.”
Chad Mowbray, Director of Educational Services, DSB1
Fast forward to spring 2015—a group of tech-savvy students turned into persuasive protesters (minus the picket signs) and convinced the board to jump on the iPad bandwagon. They showcased its versatility and user-friendliness, demonstrating their artistic flair like a one-person talent show. Who needs reality TV when you have students advocating for their own education?
By fall 2015, it was all systems go! The board decided every student from grades 4 to 12 would receive an iPad. And just when you thought the tech party was over, in 2021, they expanded their festivities to the littlest learners in kindergarten through third grade. It’s like Christmas came early for every student—equitable access to tech transforming the educational landscape faster than you can say “digital native.”
Today, we see these Apple gadgets driving innovative teaching practices like a turbocharged engine. For instance, at Bertha Shaw Public School, teachers use iPads during interactive French lessons. Picture this: a student listens to instructions in French on the iPad, records their responses in Seesaw (what a nifty tool!), and checks their pronunciation—talk about a multi-tasker! They’re creating videos and animations, proving once and for all that writing isn’t the only path to expression. Just imagine Shakespeare, but with a modern flair—yes please!
Meanwhile, New Liskeard Public School is diving deep into historical immigration themes! Students are not just reading about it; they’re creating awesome podcasts and presentations that bring the subject to life. They unpack what causes individuals to leave their homeland and build new lives in Canada, often connecting it personally, like a live-action history book that doesn’t put you to sleep. Creative learning? You betcha!
And here comes the plot twist: at Timiskaming District Secondary School (TDSS), students are not only learning the classics but are also getting down and digital with Shakespeare! Forget dusty old tomes; these students are revamping classic literature with conversations via iMessage—because who wouldn’t want to see Macbeth pondering texting dilemmas? iPads allow them to annotate texts and add narration like they’re creating the next blockbuster. Talk about transforming high drama into high tech!
In yet another clever use, TDSS students are learning vital first aid skills using iPads alongside lifelike mannequins. It’s like a reality show—but instead of drama, it’s all about saving lives! The excitement doesn’t stop there; students gain transferable skills that make them more employable, whether they’re dreaming of being doctors or just trying to impress their families at dinner.
Since adopting the iPad initiative, class participation has surged tremendously—evidence suggests nearly a 10% increase in graduation rates! I can just hear the high fives echoing through the halls! From kindergarten to high school, iPads are igniting curiosity, enhancing learning, and converting tech skeptics into technology enthusiasts faster than you can swipe a screen!
“Before, the educational system was part of a narrow framework which did not suit our young people. iPad is a game changer by allowing them to become aware of their talents and put them to good use.”
Chad Mowbray, Director of Educational Services, DSB1
So, here’s the takeaway: the power of each iPad has a ripple effect more extensive than a rock thrown into a pond. DSB1 is not just developing students’ potential; they’re ultimately shaping a generation ready to take on the world. And if that doesn’t make your heart swell with pride, you might want to check your pulse! Now that’s what I call a remarkable blend of technology and creativity!
Remember to clap for the students, folks—they’re the stars of this digital show! 📱✨
Unlocking the Full Potential of Every Student with iPad Technology
The District School Board of North-Eastern Ontario (DSB1), situated in a vast rural expanse exceeding 25,000 square kilometers, has embraced a vital mission: to foster excellence among its 7,300 students spread across 33 schools. The board’s diverse demographic comprises students ranging from kindergarten to high school, with approximately one-third of the student body having special needs and another third identifying as Indigenous. This distinct separation poses a significant challenge for DSB1, amplifying the ambition behind their educational initiatives aimed at bridging this gap.
In 2014, educators launched a groundbreaking initiative advocating for the integration of iPads in the classroom, highlighting their accessibility, educational tools, and the potential for fostering creativity as well as personalized learning experiences. This innovation has empowered students to engage in recording and editing audiovisual content, creating compelling presentations, and composing written works while maintaining the security of their personal information. By leveraging these opportunities, students are able to cultivate their critical thinking skills and expand their knowledge through unique and meaningful avenues.
“With iPad, everyone can use their talents to succeed. It’s a way to make intelligence shine. »
Chad Mowbray Director of Educational Services, DSB1
In the spring of 2015, a passionate group of students successfully persuaded the DSB1 board of directors to embrace iPad as the preferred academic tool. Their compelling demonstration showcased the device’s versatility, ease of use, and immense creative possibilities, reflecting the vibrant enthusiasm of the youth and the myriad of expression iPads facilitate.
Recognizing the transformative potential of iPads, the board committed to necessary investments in technology. Beginning in the fall of 2015, each student in grades 4 through 12 received an iPad, followed by an additional rollout in 2021 for younger students from kindergarten to 3rd grade. This strategic move ensures that every student within the district enjoys equitable access to technology, fundamentally enhancing the learning environment across all classrooms.
Today, Apple technologies are driving innovative teaching practices across the region. At Bertha Shaw Public School, elementary school teachers effectively harness iPad’s capabilities during oral and written French lessons. Students follow instructions in French on their iPads, record their responses in Seesaw, and then replay their recordings to assess their pronunciation. The technology also empowers students to produce engaging short videos and animations while narrating their creations in French. By extending beyond conventional written assignments, students uncover activities tailored to their unique strengths and make their learning journeys more visible.
At New Liskeard Public School, significant historical themes are examined through innovative, tech-savvy methods. A recent project focusing on immigration required students to create a podcast, film, or presentation using GarageBand, iMovie, or Keynote, exploring the factors that compel individuals to leave their homelands and resettle in Canada. Given the area’s diversity, such topics often strike a personal chord. By unleashing their creativity, iPads play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of learning experiences.
DSB1 recognizes that high school students are increasingly seeking authentic and relatable experiences. This realization led Timiskaming District Secondary School (TDSS) to modernize its approach to classic literature studies. In English classes, students reimagine Shakespeare’s works through Keynote presentations by crafting iMessage-inspired dialogues that place iconic characters in contemporary contexts. With iPads, they can visually annotate complex texts with Apple Pencil, enriching their analyses and preparing them for the rigors of higher education.
TDSS students also gain invaluable practical knowledge through first aid training. Utilizing iPads alongside sophisticated mannequins, students engage in realistic scenarios that necessitate swift, informed decision-making. This hands-on experience equips students with transferable skills applicable to careers in healthcare and other sectors often unknown to them.
Since the implementation of the iPad initiative at DSB1, there has been a remarkable surge in class participation, evidenced by nearly a 10% increase in graduation rates. From elementary through high school and beyond, iPads are instrumental in equipping students with vital technology skills, igniting their curiosity, and empowering them to articulate their ideas in innovative ways.
“Before, the educational system was part of a narrow framework which did not suit our young people. iPad is a game changer by allowing them to become aware of their talents and put them to good use. »
Chad Mowbray Director of Educational Services, DSB1
**Interview with Chad Mowbray, Director of Educational Services, District School Board of North-Eastern Ontario**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Chad! It’s exciting to see how the District School Board of North-Eastern Ontario is integrating technology into education. Can you share what motivated the board to adopt iPads in the classroom back in 2014?
**Chad Mowbray:** Thank you for having me! The decision to incorporate iPads stemmed from our desire to create more accessible educational environments. We recognized the need to support a diverse student body, particularly given that about one-third of our students have special needs and another third identify as Indigenous. The iPad offers various educational tools that foster creativity and allow for personalized learning experiences, helping every student to engage in ways that suit their strengths.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like a significant shift in your teaching approach. How did students react when they first started using iPads in classrooms?
**Chad Mowbray:** The response was overwhelmingly positive! When we rolled out the initiative, students quickly became advocates for the technology. In spring 2015, a group of tech-savvy students actually persuaded the board to adopt the iPad more broadly by showcasing its ease of use and versatility in their learning. Their enthusiasm was contagious and sparked a broader conversation about how technology could enhance education in our district.
**Interviewer:** That’s inspiring! How has the integration of iPads impacted student performance and engagement in the classroom?
**Chad Mowbray:** Since we implemented this initiative, we’ve seen remarkable changes. There’s been nearly a 10% increase in graduation rates, and class participation has surged. The iPads enable students to express themselves creatively through various avenues—like podcasts, videos, and interactive projects—allowing them to shine in their unique ways. It’s been incredibly rewarding to witness students who were once hesitant become more engaged learners.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned using iPads for unique projects, such as creating podcasts about historical immigration themes. Can you elaborate on how this approach benefits students’ learning?
**Chad Mowbray:** Absolutely! Projects like the one at New Liskeard Public School immerse students in real-world issues while allowing them to explore personal connections to the content. By creating podcasts, they engage in critical thinking, research, and multimedia presentation—all key skills for the 21st century. This hands-on approach makes learning meaningful and enjoyable, enhancing their grasp of complex topics.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like iPads are more than just a learning tool; they’re transforming the entire educational experience. What’s next for the District School Board of North-Eastern Ontario in regards to technology integration?
**Chad Mowbray:** We’re excited to continue building on the foundation we’ve established. As technology evolves, we’re committed to exploring new tools and methods that further enhance our students’ learning journeys. Our goal is to ensure that each student not only thrives academically but also becomes adept in navigating an increasingly digital world.
**Interviewer:** Thank you so much for your time, Chad. It’s clear that the District School Board of North-Eastern Ontario is paving the way for innovative and inclusive education!
**Chad Mowbray:** Thank you for the opportunity to share our journey! We’re proud of what we’ve achieved and excited about what lies ahead.
