The mission of the North Bellmore Instructional Technology program is to strengthen and support the teaching and learning process through the integration of technology with the curriculum. Computer skills are not taught in isolation but are developed progressively through repeated use and application in various contexts that are aligned with both National and New York State Learning Standards. Besides the enrichment of the preexisting curriculum, students are provided the opportunity to gain mastery of software that provides a foundation for computer literacy, an important lifelong skill; students increased computer knowledge also fosters self-confidence and leads to their growth as independent learners.
To support the effective use of technology integration, the district has built a high bandwidth network infrastructure with high speed Internet access that will sustain our technology needs for many years to come. The network has enabled the district to take advantage of on-line applications for both administrative and instructional purposes, and integrate newer technologies including video-on-demand and a voiceover IP telephony. Each of the classrooms is equipped with networked multimedia workstations and a printer. Also available for teachers is a scanner, digital cameras and a large screen monitor that can be rolled in for group instruction and presentations. In the Dinkelmeyer School we have a computer lab with twenty-six networked multimedia workstations, a SMART Board, a scanner and digital camera. The other five schools have a mobile cart with twenty wireless laptops to support instruction in the classrooms.
Recently, interactive whiteboard technology has started to play a significant role in supporting classroom instruction. Each school is currently equipped with two portable SMART Boards and we have begun to install permanent units in the classrooms as well. As of September 2008, all the sixth grade classrooms are now equipped with a permanently mounted unit. The District plans to continue the implementation of these permanent SMART Boards as funds become available.
The district’s approach to technology will remain open-minded, flexible and forward-looking so as to accommodate its inevitable rapid evolution. Our goal will continue to be that students and staff acquire the skills necessary to live, work and learn in a society that relies on technology.
