Personal technology devices such as laptops, iPads, iPhones, iPods, etc., allow access and deliver information any place and any time.  There have been tremendous changes and additions to the technology tools used at home and at work. These rapid changes are also taking place in the schools. For the past five years, D102 teachers have been working toward a vision of personalized learning - supported by mobile technology.  The use of technology devices - from iPads and laptops to interactive whiteboards - is as common in D102 classrooms as the chalk and blackboard of the past.

Last year, when elementary teachers were asked to replace outdated desktop computers, teachers unanimously selected mobile technology devices. Teachers use this portable technology to provide students with rich and engaging learning opportunities.

"Our staff is smartly infusing mobile technology where it makes the most sense as they participate in rigorous training themselves," states Superintendent Dunkin.  "They are constantly looking to new horizons in educational technology so they can share it with their students. As we did with our elementary teachers, we asked our fifth through eighth grade teachers what they wanted to replace outdated computers. They too felt strongly that students would benefit from individual access to resources through mobile technology."

Recently, Apple, Inc. announced plans to broaden the education and production materials available for the iPad.  Clearly, this will transform the textbook industry and beyond.  Students will have access to a rich world of knowledge in one device. Digital books will be less expensive than the traditional textbook and will be continually updated via the Web. This new software will also allow students and teachers to produce very rich content.

On February 13, the Board and administrators will attend a retreat together to discuss collective thoughts on the next mobile technology initiative and other programs that focus on high levels of learning for all students. This meeting begins at 5:00pm in the District Office Conference Center and is open to the public.  (The regular Board meeting will follow at 7:00pm.) Additionally, on March 21 at 7:00pm, D102 will host its fourth and final community event to share the new programs and initiatives slated for the 2012-13 school year. This meeting will take place in the junior high cafeteria.

The Board and Superintendent extend sincere appreciation to the original Future Planning Committee for setting such timely and comprehensive long range goals and allowing staff to create the actions that keep the journey on course in a fiscally responsible manner.

Tripp Third Graders Use iPads to Document Pen Pals' Visit
When students from Chicago Futabakai Japanese School toured Tripp Elementary School, District 102 pen pals documented the visit using iPads. Third grade teacher Carol Finnen has worked for many years to collaborate with the Futabakai school located in Arlington Heights to offer "exchange" opportunities with our students. The students write letters to their buddies and visit one another throughout the school year to learn more about the others' culture, traditions, and language. This year, the students used the iPads to research and share information about their cultural traditions.