Two Big Island elementary schools are among the eight schools statewide that have been selected for the Common Core Digital Curriculum Pilot Project (CCDC) in the upcoming 2013-14 school year. The eight schools were selected based on their technological readiness, commitment to integrating technology in the classroom and readiness to implement a large schoolwide project. The schools are: Keaau and Pahoa Elementary schools on the Big Island; and Mililani Mauka Elementary, Mililani Waena Elementary, Moanalua Middle, Nanaikapono Elementary, Nanakuli Elementary and Nanakuli Intermediate and High schools on Oahu.
Two Big Island elementary schools are among the eight schools statewide that have been selected for the Common Core Digital Curriculum Pilot Project (CCDC) in the upcoming 2013-14 school year. The eight schools were selected based on their technological readiness, commitment to integrating technology in the classroom and readiness to implement a large schoolwide project. The schools are: Keaau and Pahoa Elementary schools on the Big Island; and Mililani Mauka Elementary, Mililani Waena Elementary, Moanalua Middle, Nanaikapono Elementary, Nanakuli Elementary and Nanakuli Intermediate and High schools on Oahu.
The CCDC pilot aims to support schools’ implementation of new digital curricula aligned with the Common Core State Standards, which are new learning standards for English language arts and math. The eight schools will receive a tablet or laptop for every student and teacher, as well as new curriculum and training on Google Apps for Education. Following teacher training, Keaau and Pahoa elementary schools will be the first to receive their devices during the first semester. The remaining schools will receive their devices in early 2014.
“The introduction of both the CCDC along with the Common Core State Standards in our schools helps set a high standard for student achievement, and pushes our efforts even further in preparing our students for post-secondary success,” stated State Schools Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi.
The Common Core Digital Curriculum Pilot Project builds on the successful work of a handful of Hawaii schools that are using devices. At Keaau Elementary, which has been providing devices to students for two years, there has been a significant difference in the classroom dynamics due to digital devices.
“The use of digital devices in our school has been a tremendous help in accelerating our students’ love of learning, which translates into higher test scores and better attendance,” said Keaau Elementary Principal Chad Keone Farias. “We’ve surpassed the state average in math and are on par with the state average in reading, which is a huge improvement over the last few years.”
Data collected from the first phase of the initiative will include student and teacher use, formative assessments and student engagement. The CCDC project takes advantage of ongoing DOE efforts to introduce new technology for learning and expand the DOE’s broadband infrastructure while bringing 21st century learning to the classroom. It also supports the goals outlined in the 2011-2018 DOE and Board of Education Strategic Plan. The 2013 Legislature appropriated $8 million to this pilot effort.
“We appreciate Governor Abercrombie and the Legislature’s support in our efforts and congratulate the schools that took the initiative to apply for this important pilot program,” said BOE Chair Don Horner.
To learn more about the Department’s Strategic Plan for student success please visit www.hawaiipublicschools.org.