Oklahoma District Deploys iPads for 1:1 Initiative

Oklahoma's Altus Public Schools has launched a 1:1 computing initiative in an effort to provide personalized digital learning and integrate technology skills practice with the classroom.

The first step of the four-phase project, dubbed the Digital Learning Initiative, was launched this school year, when all teachers and certified staff were issued MacBook Air laptops preloaded with software for use in curriculum. "Teachers will use laptops and related technology to enhance communication, collaboration, organization, and production in all classes and subject areas," according to a report in the Altus Times.

The second phase of the project is launching in the second semester of this school year, when all students at Altus Intermediate School and Altus Junior High School will receive iPads for use at school and home, with access to learning resources via the district's network.

Phase III will include deployment of iPads to all students at Altus High School beginning in the 2015-2016 school year, and in the final phase, beginning the following year, all elementary school students will receive iPads.

Altus Public Schools serves approximately 3,800 students at five elementary schools, an intermediate school, a junior high school, a high school and a learning center with a budget of about $27.5 million. More information is available at altusschools.k12.ok.us.

About the Author

Joshua Bolkan is contributing editor for Campus Technology, THE Journal and STEAM Universe. He can be reached at [email protected].

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