A PUBLICATION FOR THE RESIDENTS OF INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 2154
FROM THE DESK OF SUPERINTENDENT DEBORAH HILDE Welcome to the 2012-2013 school year. I hope you had an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful weather we were so fortunate to have this summer. The 2012-2013 school year brings some exciting changes to the district. In June, the Board of Education approved the restructuring of the elementary schools. All students in grades K-4 will attend Franklin Elementary and all students in grades 5 and 6 will attend Nelle Shean Elementary. The restructuring will provide staff and administration opportunities to enhance the educational experiences and better meet the individual needs of all elementary students. It will also provide
the students with an opportunity to develop friendships with students they may have not had an opportunity to meet in the past prior to sixth grade. One of the district’s priorities with the successful passage of the operating referendum was to upgrade technology and expand the use of instructional technology. The district is currently upgrading its network and wireless capacity to allow for the expanded use of technology by staff and students. This year will be the first year of the district’s four year iPad implementation plan. The district has purchased 260 iPads for staff and student use. Teachers will receive training throughout the year on using the iPad as an educational tool. Several staff members are being trained as technology implementation specialists to assist staff and students
Independent School District No. 2154 Eveleth-Gilbert Public Schools 801 Jones Street Eveleth, MN 55734-1696
as we incorporate more technology into teaching and learning. The district has also hired a Computer Resource teacher to provide computer and iPad instruction to K-6 students. All elementary students will receive this instruction on a weekly basis. This year, students will use the iPads within the classroom setting and will not be allowed to take them home. Phase II of the iPad implementation plan, scheduled for 2013 -2014, will provide some students with one-onone iPads that may be taken home. Phases III and IV will provide additional students with one-on-one iPads. As a result of the successful passage of the operating referendum the district was also able to reinstate the 7-12 vocal music program. I am pleased to report that choir is available to students in grades 7 and 8 as
an alternative to band, orchestra, or general music for those students who enjoy singing. Students in grades 9-12 may also choose choir as an elective course. The Board of Education and District Administration are pleased to once again have this opportunity available to the students. We want all students to develop an appreciation for the arts and to have an opportunity to discover and develop their individual talents. If at any time during the school year you have questions regarding your students or what is happening in your child’s school or in the district I encourage you to contact your student’s Building Administrator or myself regarding your questions. We can be reached either by phone or by email. I hope you and your students have an enjoyable and successful 2012 -2013 school year.
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