Apple Notebooks Transform “Old School” Learning in Pennsylvania
Apple 1 to 1 Learning
“We wouldn’t know how to implement this notebook program with any company other than Apple.”
— Mark Erb, District Technology Coordinator, Kutztown Area School District
Dr. Brenda Winkler used to call Kutztown Area High School “the black hole of technology.” When she became superintendent of Kutztown Area School District, the school’s computer labs had a mix of aging PCs, and one teacher connected to the Internet via a sluggish dial-up connection. But then the district implemented a 1 to 1 learning initiative based on wireless Apple notebooks. Now, with the help of Apple Professional Development (APD) and some talented teen technicians, Kutztown Area High has changed from black hole to red-hot.
As Winkler and her team were considering technology vendors for their equipment upgrade, they talked to several PC notebook manufacturers. Following their due-diligence, there was no question which way the district should go: with wireless Apple notebooks and Apple Professional Development.
Apple Trainers, Student Technicians Help with Launch
Kutztown High School took delivery of 700 Apple notebooks for all students and teachers in the summer of 2004. APD helped introduce the school’s faculty to the new computers, and assisted with the curriculum integration. Then when students received their notebooks, a brand-new technical support group kicked into gear. Dubbed the “Apple Corps” (but not affiliated with Apple), this team is comprised of a mix of student council members, athletes, and Vocational Technology students, among others. All provide an invaluable blend of coaching and guidance to peers and teachers.
In the months ahead, APD will lead additional technology immersion sessions for Kutztown High’s teachers. And as more funds become available, the school’s structural renovation will move forward. In the interim, with the Apple notebooks and the Apple Corps, Kutztown High already has constructed a 21st-century learning environment.
