Last month a new technology lab was unveiled at Northeast Elementary School. This space has been under renovation since last school year. The goal of reestablishing a technology lab was the collective work of the administration, staff, students and parents.
Through a series of planning meetings with Northeast staff, and with the assistance of district-level departments like Buildings and Grounds and Technology, the infrastructure was designed for the new space. Additionally, teachers, parents and students participated in feedback sessions that helped the team understand the type of materials and equipment needed to foster an engaging and 21st century learning experience. The Northeast community raised a significant amount of money to fund the project at last year’s GloBall Gala.
“As students walked into their new multi-dimensional space for the first time they were met by all new furniture, collaborative learning centers, 25 state-of-the art iMac desktop computers, three 3D printers, virtual reality (VR) goggles for virtual field trips and an 86” instructional touch screen monitor,” said Principal Joseph Putrino. “It was fun to hear the students’ expressions as they entered the room. And while the students were all jazzed up, it could not match the excitement of our Technology teacher, Mr. (Anthony) Buttitta, who has been planning for this space to open since last year.”
Continued Putrino, “In this lab we expect students to work with software, hardware and each other to keep them on pace with tools that our modern society uses to be productive and learn. Whether learning how to access information, digitally editing photos or videos, creating 3D models, designing presentations or collaboratively working on STEAM-related, hands-on activities, this room and Mr. Buttitta are ready to support our students’ growth. We see this new lab space as a powerful addition to our school and Global Studies experience.”