2014 Grants in Action

A few stories about Grants awarded in Spring of 2014. Click here to see a complete list of grants.

21st Century Collaborative Classroom

Kerry Gallagher has transformed her history class into a center for student-driven learning.  Together with BYOD (Bring Your Own Device), monitors and speakers, students are able to research, design projects, and present in a more real world environment.

The pictures below show the value small group workstations. They are using an app called Skitch to annotate primary source art and demonstrate understanding of how the creator was trying to depict the benefits of industrialization in Lowell, MA.

“I can’t describe how wonderful it has been to add the TV monitors to my classroom and the collaborative spirit it has added to our learning” – Kerry Gallagher

 

Admirable Second Year for The Robockets

RMHS robotics team had successful second year winning the Rhode Island District competition. They were ranked 24th in Northeastern District which qualified them to participate in the NE Championship. The team of over 30 students across all high school grades placed 35th. A REF grant allowed for a second robot to be built for use in community outreach such as Reading Street Faire, and for more hands on opportunities for team members. Check out the video below!

The Robockets gave a comprehensive presentation and live demonstration to the REF board last spring.  With impressive professionalism they explained the educational benefits, successful rollout and future plans of the program.  Presenters are pictured below with members of REF’s board.

The students (from left to right) are: Jared Whitney-grade 10, Andrew Sack – grade 11, Chirag Patel – grade 12, Caitlin Mahoney – grade 12, Tim Fitzgerald – grade 11, Stephen Ryan – grade 12. Adults (left to right): Nancy Dieselman, Christine Downey, Mike Foley, Andrea Nelson, Susan Shields, Deb Gilburg, Demetra Restuccia and Christine Kelley.

For more information go to www.robockets.org and follow their Facebook page  FRC Team 4761 “The Robockets”

“So many thanks to REF for all the support you have shown us over the past 2 years. The kids truly enjoy this program and REF was a huge part of making it happen.” -Kristen Murray,  Parent Coordinator

Connecting the World iPAD Grant: 

RMHS Foreign Language Teachers’ presentation chosen “Best of MaFLA”

RMHS teachers presented practical uses of iPads in foreign language classrooms at the yearly state conference for Foreign Language teachers, MaFLA.  Participants used apps such as Socrative in the classroom with BYOD, tried Wiffiti, a text message board, and learned how to flip the classroom with Educreations.

Not only was it chosen “Best of MaFLA” but it also was awarded the chance to present at the regional Northeast Conference. They also were  invited by MaFLA to come back and offer a longer workshop next fall.

“Wherever we go, we always let people know how lucky we are to have the support of our town and your organization.” -Joanne Alverez- Foreign Language Department Head