The teachers at Washington-Wilkes Middle School are constantly seeking ways to increase student achievement. Currently we are offering tutorial sessions from our AmeriCorps volunteer, study skills classes in reading and math, and the Education Talent Search afterschool program on our campus. In addition to these initiatives, the teachers are looking to increase the engagement of students in the classroom. The use of technology has changed the face of the classroom at Washington-Wilkes Middle School and has allowed students to be actively engaged in class.

For many years, students have had access to computers to research assigned topics or type papers for courses. The look of technology in the classroom has changed in recent years. It is no longer an additional component to the lesson but is a fully integrated portion. The teachers at WWMS use their limited technology resources in a variety of ways to foster student participation and learning. Many of the classrooms at WWMS contain interactive whiteboards. These boards, which interact with the computer, are used daily and allow students to demonstrate their understanding of concepts. All students are now eager to answer questions using the interactive boards. This helps teachers quickly analyze student understanding and revise their instruction based on student needs. Some of the whiteboards also have interactive response systems. The response systems allow students to answer questions by pressing a button on a remote. Students enjoy this new approach to assessment and often ask to use this method in the classroom.

In addition to the whiteboards, WWMS students are frequently able to apply their knowledge using technology. Students use the internet to acquire knowledge on the assigned topic. Webquests and teacher-guided activities help students focus their search and maximize learning. Teachers also have students demonstrate their knowledge using a variety of computer programs. Performance assessments require students to create brochures, newspapers, and slide show presentations. These assessments help develop higher order thinking skills.

Kathy Cox, State School Superintendent, recently visited WWMS. During her visit, Ms. Cox wanted to observe the use of technology in the classroom to engage students and increase learning. She visited several classrooms and enjoyed a variety of lessons that were highlighted with technology. Ms. Cox was actively engaged in the technology oriented lessons. Teachers were able to meet with Ms. Cox at the end of the school day. She was pleased with the use of technology at WWMS and feels that it is helping to drive student success.