Technology

Teacher Coaching in the Classroom and Technology Integration is KEY in technology progression at Grace Academy!

Grace Academy implements the unique “Teacher coaching” model within the classroom environment which allows teachers to receive on-going training while the students are learning at the same time. This model has greatly advanced student and teacher knowledge as well as confidence in knowing how to use and integrate technology within the classroom efficiently.

We are emphasizing the following within our technology program:

  • Utilizing SMARTBoard throughout the elementary wing.  Every grade level K3 – 5 has a Smartboard. This interactive whiteboard is transforming learning in our school.  With the help of our Parent Support Group, Smart Notebook Lessons have been developed that integrate with our curriculum.
  • Utilizing interactive whiteboards in Middle school and High School providing interactive classrooms.  Presently all classrooms have some form on interactive whiteboards with overhead projectors.
  • Integrating the Senteo Response Clicker Systems and tablets paired with the interactive Smartboards allows teachers to offer differentiated instruction within the classroom, meeting all learners’ needs.
  • Providing resources like BrainPop and BrainPop Jr. to enhance the curriculum within K3 – 8th grade. Providing computer training to elementary students through weekly classes that emphasize Technology Standards to create 21st century learners.
  • Incorporating Blended Schools into the curriculum at Grace Academy in high school.  Students are taking online distance learning classes and teachers are using this resource for additional supplemental resources to integrate into their curriculum lessons.  These online courses allow for students to take classes of greater variety. All high school students need to take an online course to graduate.
  • Providing a safe environment for internet searching through a filtering program, allowing for our students to be protected from inappropriate information on the internet.  Digital Citizenship and Cybersecurity is taught from an early age.
  • Allowing students in grades 6-12 to have their personal Google Apps account for collaboration within classes and paperless submission to teachers.
  • Using 3 carts of computer laptops to complete projects and Web 2.0 applications that integrate within the curriculum.
  • Utilizing Maple 15 program in our mathematics curriculum in middle and high school.  Maple is a higher level mathematical application program  allowing students to use critical thinking skills to assist in exploring, visualizing, and solving the most complex mathematical problems, reducing errors and providing greater insight into the math.
  • Learning how to make screencast activities within the classroom Communicating with parents through Edline software to provide access to grades and other classroom announcements and links.
  • Offering Lego Robotics Leagues during school for Grades 5-7 and after school for Grades 1-4 once a week.  Students use the WeDo and Mindstorm Lego Robotics software to program their lego robots.
  • Offering “Revving Up Our Readers” is an afterschool program using Lexia: Strategies for Students Reading decoding software program to assist readers who need an additional push on phonics.  The program is offered 5 days a week after school
  • Offering programming software for 8th graders called SCRATCH to help build problem solving skills and thinking out of the box.