Apple LaptopS FOR Learning Program launches at nogales high school
LA PUENTE, CA – SEPTEMBER 16, 2010 – Rowland Unified Superintendent Dr. Maria Ott is proud to announce the launch of the Apple Laptops for Learning Program at Nogales High School. This innovative program changes the way students learn and prepares them with the skills needed for college and to succeed in a global society. The Laptops for Learning Program provides students and teachers with around-the-clock use of an Apple notebook computer and access to software and educational tools, where learning can take place 24/7. On September 20 and 21 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., 200 students and families will attend “Roll Out Night,” where they will receive their computer and basic training. Nogales High School is the fourth school in Rowland Unified to implement this successful technology initiative.
“We have seen the huge success and academic growth that Oswalt Academy has achieved in a short time with this program, and we are committed to bringing it to our students,” said Dr. Nancy Padilla, Principal of Nogales High School. “There has been an overwhelming response from our teachers, students and parents and it is our goal to transform our campus and eventually move this program school-wide.”
A team of Nogales teachers in the subject areas of English, Math, History Science and World Languages/Spanish 1 attended extensive training during the spring and summer. Incoming freshmen families from the feeder intermediate schools of Giano, Rincon and Oswalt Academy attended various presentations to sign-up.
Each iMac notebook computer is pre-loaded with educational and digital authoring applications, including iPhoto, iMovie, iWeb, GarageBand, iDVD, and ComicLife. Each computer also has wireless connectivity and a built-in video camera and accessibility features like text-to-voice. The program is funded by parent purchases/multi-year leasing to own programs over three years, school fundraising, and community business support. (Businesses interested in helping with student scholarships or donations, please call (626) 854-8352).
Research has shown students who participate in a 1 to 1 laptop program are more involved in learning activities, spend more time working on schoolwork at home, delve more deeply into learning topics, have improved attendance and fewer behavior problems.
Nogales High School is an International Baccalaureate World School, a National Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) Demonstration School and offers a unique Career Certification Program for students. It is a four-year comprehensive high school accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges with an enrollment of 2231 students. Each year graduates receive millions in grants and scholarships and attend the top colleges and universities. More information can be found at www.nogaleshs.enschool.org
Rowland Unified School District is proud to have the Apple Laptop Learning program now at four of its schools: Oswalt Academy – An Apple Distinguished School; Ybarra Academy of the Arts and Technology, and this month launching at Giano Intermediate and Nogales High School. For more information about Rowland Unified, call (626) 965-2541 or visit www.RowlandSchools.org. The Rowland Unified School District serves 16,000 students at 21 elementary and secondary schools in the communities of Rowland Heights, Walnut, La Puente, City of Industry, and West Covina. Permits allow students from other communities to attend our schools. More than 5,000 adults (16+) are also served by the Rowland Adult and Community Education School.
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