Jackson teachers getting devices; first step for 1:1 initiative

Before the new school year begins in Jackson, all certified teachers in the district will have brand-new Chromebook laptops that run on Google operating systems.

Matt Lacy, associate superintendent of curriculum, instruction and human resources, said the decision to buy the 400 machines grew out of the strategic planning process that has been underway in the district for several months.

"Really, we're making teachers more mobile," he said.

Each device costs less than $200.

Teachers who use the laptops can access everything they need remotely, whether it's the curriculum, grades or any other essential instructional material.

That will be of help when they choose to work from home or happen to be away at conferences or seminars, Lacy said.

Since the district switched to using Google email, documents and apps last year, it made sense to acquire devices that also are Google-driven.

The district has been migrating the curriculum of local schools to Google as well.

While Lacy confirmed the decision to get teachers used to the machines is part of a move toward having an official 1:1 initiative for students, it's still not clear when similar devices will be distributed or for what grade levels.

A 1:1 initiative makes laptops or tablets available to students for all or most of their classwork.

Most districts in the area have adopted the system in recent years.

Superintendent John Link and others who have been involved in the process will present a strategic action plan to the school board Wednesday after months of different stakeholder groups collaborating on what they would like to see in the district in coming years. A major topic that has been identified is incorporating more technology into the overall curriculum.

"I think the next step is getting a committee together to decide on an implementation plan for 1:1," Lacy said.

Until that happens, teachers are the primary beneficiaries of the existing devices.

"I think right now, it's a tool to better assist our teachers," Lacy said.

ljones@semissourian.com

(573) 388-3652

Pertinent address:

614 E. Adams St., Jackson, Mo.