Technology

FEATURED PROGRAM: Technology at Neil Cummins

HARD AT WORK: Neil Cummins Technology teacher, Stuart Reiter, with student in the Technology Lab.

One of our parents, Kevin Patsel, visited Technology Night a few weeks ago. Kevin gave his thoughts on how the Technology Program, supported by the CMLSF, has helped our children.

* * *

What I Learned When I Stumbled Into The Neil Cummins Computer Lab
By Kevin Patsel (Dad)

OK, admittedly, I didn’t know my way around the new school layout too well, so stumbling into the computer lab by mistake is not such a random act. However, what I learned once I walked through the door turned out to be quite an enlightening experience. And, now I know what became of the old multi-purpose room.

Well, quite an improvement from the former computer lab. Not only was the semblance of new computers impressive, but also what was on the screens. What these kids are doing is far and away more advanced than anything I do at the office. In addition to learning computer graphics, they are actually studying computer science, developing databases and even getting involved in some pretty complex programming.

All this thanks to your donations to the CML Schools Foundation, as well as some expert guidance from Stuart Reiter, Neil Cummins tech teacher. Stuart also receives assistance from Bruce Amos, District Tech Support and Kit, a community volunteer.

Stuart and Bruce
FAMILIAR FACES: Stuart Reiter, Neil Cummins Technology teacher & Bruce Amos, District Tech Support

Most classrooms are equipped with at least two computers – some with as many as four or five. Reiter, who has been teaching elementary age school kids for nearly nine years, is enthusiastic about all the new equipment, but even more so about how the kids are responding to the program. “It’s so inspiring to see the students run into the lab eager to learn,” he said. “They see it as a major perk, so it’s easy for me to get them to listen to the ‘boring’ stuff, before they actually get their hands on the computers.”

That boring stuff Reiter speaks of is as impressive as what these kids are doing on the computer screens. He’s not only teaching them how to enhance their studies, but also teaching them to appreciate computers – learn computer terminology, shortcuts, how to log onto the network server, how to re-start a machine and about the inner workings of an operating system. With a donation of some old computers, Reiter even had the kids taking out the memory and hard drives and putting the machines back together. “They loved it!” he chuckled.

The computer program works in two different ways – as an extension to what the teachers are teaching in the classroom, and also as an enhancement to the regular curriculum. Students are using computers for math, reading, science, social studies, vocabulary, graphic arts, mind puzzles, typing and even animation.

Starting in kindergarten, they learn basic familiarization techniques that continue on through the 5th grade where computer skills become more advanced and incorporate complex Internet searches.

Students also mirror the programs that are being taught in the classrooms. For instance: 2nd graders create autobiographies using multi-media software, 3rd graders work on Miwok Indian projects, and 4th graders use Oregon Trail software to complement their studies of the gold rush and California history. Internet skills are taught beginning in the 2nd grade, advancing to more complex skills in 4th and 5th grade.

Reiter has also got the teachers getting more tech savvy in the computer lab. He offers tutorial sessions every Monday – a good chance for teachers to share the needs of students and how the curriculums can support each other.

Now, if only we could get Reiter to do a parent tutorial, so we can keep up with our kids and their budding technology prowess. It might just have more of us parents stumbling into the computer lab… and, this time, on purpose!

Make Choices.
Make a Difference.

Thank you for your donations.

Our Fundraising Programs:

THINK eSCRIP
SHOP LOCAL with eScrip merchants or our business supporters!

BUSINESS SUPPORTING SCHOOLS
PLEDGE online for 2007-2008

IN THE FALL:
FAMILY GIVING CAMPAIGN
• WRITE a check!
• SCHEDULE time payments
• DONATE stock