"If we teach today as we taught yesterday, we rob our children of tomorrow." John Dewey

Education The Digital Way Bringing LUSD Schools into the 21 st Century

“Do not confine your children to your own learning, for they were born in another time.” Chinese Proverb

Purpose of Tonight Start a discussion, not make a decision Update Board members Get feedback Give Direction

Proposal LUSD Board of Education gives the Superintendent direction to investigate and report on the concept of introducing a digital K – 8 school(s) for the school year 2013 – 2014.

Discussion Points What is a Digital School? Instruction is primarily presented in a digital format to students using digital devices. Students use presentation and productivity software to present projects and demonstrate mastery of skills. Students use technology to complete assignments such as writing to websites.

Discussion Points What is a Digital School? Students are taught to use technology for broadening research and knowledge. Students are taught the consequences of internet research and learn to view it with healthy skepticism.

“Any teacher that can be replaced by a computer deserves to be." David Thornburg

Discussion Points What a Digital School is Not It is not a virtual school. Teachers are not replaced with computers; they use them as tools. Digital schools are not some new fad.

“The need to know the capital of Florida died when my phone learned the answer. Rather the students of tomorrow need to be able to think creatively; they will need to learn on their own, adapt to new challenges and innovate on-the-fly." Anthony Chivetta, high school student

Discussion Points Why Do We Need a Digital School? Students do not know computers. Much wider breadth of instruction. Infuses real world applications and situations into instruction. It is the way of the future, but there will be problems.

Discussion Points Why Do We Need a Digital School? A digital classroom is an extended classroom. It becomes a teacher training center. Moves us further down the road to becoming that Education Destination.

Discussion Points What about cost? Cost will be a factor. No commitments until after November election and budget fate is known. We attempt to mitigate cost through partnerships, grants, and creative financing. The goal is to be as close to cost neutral as possible. Weigh short term cost vs. long term cost.

Discussion Points LUSD or Charter? Needs to be discussed when all information is gathered. Continue to think outside the box and look at new ways to deliver quality educational services.

Discussion Points What’s the next step? Direct the Superintendent to form a committee to investigate this opportunity. Set study session to review possibilities. Continue to think outside the box and look at new ways to deliver quality educational services.

“The principle goal of education is to create men and women who are capable of doing new things, not simply repeating what other generations have done." Jean Piaget