With the approval of the Kennedy Middle School project we believed that it was important to determine if 1:1 computing would be the technology path for the future. The term 1:1 generally means that each student and teacher will have a device with which they interact with each other and with content accessible on the world-wide web. We began meeting with Rob Richardson from Intel two years ago to look at various 1:1 models. Rob introduced us to several school districts who had began implementing some type of 1:1 programs in their school districts. Trends in technology, reports from first adopters and consumer buy habits lead us to conclude that personal computing devices will be the norm in the near future, and that students and teachers must be prepared to make constructive use of these devices and their tools.
In May 2011, a 1:1 Steering Committee was created to begin researching 1:1 programs. The Steering Committee is comprised of two administrators, one School Committee member, eight teachers (Grades 5-7), and three parents. We discussed possible devices, professional development for staff, guidelines and policies, parent forums, and current research. In July 2011 we were awarded an Intel grant for our Kennedy 1:1 initiative. This grant has provided funding for teacher professional development and upgrading our team Netbook carts.
We are excited about what 1:1 learning can provide for our students and staff. This site will be updated periodically as progress is made towards our 1:1 program. Please send your comments and questions to one-to-one@hudson.k12.ma.us.