Where do I begin? It starts with the daily frustration of trying to improve my fifth grade students reading levels. It is essential that their critical reading skills are developed in order to function in this competitive world.
My school is like a diamond in the rough.
It lies inside a urban school district that is constantly without money. Our population of students are made up of mostly children that care about growing intellectually and having success in their lives. The Home and School Association continues to have fundraisers which helps support the needs of the school. However, because of the high cost of technology, we have to go without computers in the classroom. There are a limited amount of desk top computers in the library that cater to a population of approximately 500 students.
My Project
If we could acquire iPads in the classroom I would be able to have at my fingertips numerous ways to help my students improve their literacy skills. Our school has access to a specialized reading program through the Internet. This reading program is individualized for each child and can raise their reading level when used faithfully. My core group of below level readers need to be empowered to use the program more. My vision is that every child in my class would have a way to use the Internet for reading about interesting non- fiction topics that may become the catalyst for lighting a fire to help reach their future goals. These five iPads could enable the students to become independent learners.
The use of technology would bring my students into the 21st century.
They would be able to compete with children from suburban school districts that have so much more. Our students should not suffer because of lack of money! My core group of below leveled readers would be able to have access to a reading program that can make a difference in their test scores and future.
Nearly all students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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