This year, the Paradise Valley school district in Arizona started 19 GenYES schools, expanding from 5 schools last year. Students in elementary, middle, and high schools are learning to help their teachers with technology, and are being trusted with the responsibility to increase the use of technology in their own schools. At the same time, they are learning 21st century skills like collaborating with adults, project planning, and of course–technology.
According to this article in the Independent Newspaper of Arizona, GenYES is part of a district-wide effort to give students a wide range of experiences that prepare them for college, careers, and life after graduation. At the same time, GenYES helps all teachers use technology in classrooms to improve student achivement in every subject.
“Almost all of our students are computer-literate but the adults on campus are not, so we use the students to help adults use technology more at our school,” said Ms. Marianne Bursi, principal of Explorer Middle School.
Congratulations to the students and teachers in Paradise Valley for getting this attention for your efforts!
